Late results of replantations in tip amputations of the thumb
Abstract
Methods: The study included 14 patients (12 males, 2 females; mean age 28 years; range 14 to 40 years) whose replanted thumbs survived following replantation for Tamai type 1 amputations in the distal nail fold of the thumb. Central digital artery anastomosis was performed in all the cases. Four patients with an appropriate vein had a single volar vein anastomosis. Nerve repair could be possible in only three patients. Sensory evaluations were made with the SemmesWeinstein monofilament test, static and moving two-point discrimination tests, and vibration test. In addition, patients were evaluated with respect to atrophy in the replanted part, nail-bed deformities, and cold intolerance. The mean followup period was 11 months (range 6 to 48 months).
Results: The Semmes-Weinstein test was green (range 2.83 to 3.22) in five patients (35.7%), blue (range 3.22 to 3.61) in eight patients (57.1%), and purple (range 3.84 to 4.31) in one patient (7.1%). The mean static and moving two-point discrimination test results were 6.9 mm (range 3 to 10 mm) and 4.5 mm (range 3 to 6 mm), respectively. Compared to the intact fingers, vibration was increased in six thumbs (42.9%), decreased in six thumbs, and the same in two thumbs (14.3%). Atrophy of the replanted parts was observed in five patients (35.7%). Three patients (21.4%) complained about cold intolerance, and three patients had nail-bed deformities. The mean time to return to work was 3.2 months (range 2 to 6 months).
Conclusion: Despite technical difficulties, thumb replantations yield good functional and aesthetic results. Sensory recovery is sufficient even after tip replantations without nerve repair.
Keywords
Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Health Care Administration
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
İsmail Özçelik
This is me
Hüsrev Purisa
This is me
Berkan Mersa
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İlker Sezer
This is me
Erden Ertürer
This is me
Özge Ergün
This is me
Publication Date
December 18, 2008
Submission Date
May 10, 2014
Acceptance Date
-
Published in Issue
Year 2008 Volume: 42 Number: 4