Revascularization of the ischemic hand with arterialization of the venous system

Marissa R Matarrese1, Warren C Hammert

  • 1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.

Chronic ischemia in the upper extremity is a challenging condition for both patients and surgeons. When ischemia reaches a critical level, tissue loss ensues, which results in necrosis of fingers at various levels. Amputation of necrotic digits, without addressing the etiology of the necrosis, often results in wound-healing problems and more proximal amputations. The purpose of this report was to describe a surgical technique that improves vascular supply to the hand and allows for healing of the amputation sites and relief of pain through arterialization of the venous system.

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