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Therapy Interventions for Upper Limb Amputees Undergoing Selective Nerve Transfers
Published on: October 29, 2021
The validity of the mangled extremity severity score in the assessment of upper limb injuries
S Togawa1, N Yamami, H Nakayama
1Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-5819, Japan. stogawa@muc.biglobe.ne.jp
Abstract:
The Mangled Extremity Severity Score (MESS) may be used to decide whether to perform amputation in patients with injuries involving a limb. A score of 7 points or higher indicates the need for amputation. We have treated three patients with a MESS of 7 points or higher, in two of which the injured limb was salvaged. This scoring system was originally devised to assess injuries to the lower limb. However, a MESS of 7 points as a justification for amputation does not appear appropriate when assessing injuries to the major vessels in the upper limb.

