[Functional results after replantation/revascularization of major parts of the extremities]

Twenty-five patients who were submitted to replantation or revascularization of a total of 11 upper arms, 11 forearms, one wrist and three feet were followed-up with the object of assessing the functional status. 85% of the replantated/revascularized parts survived. The follow-up examination included assessment of the level of amputation, mechanism of the injury, duration of ischaemia and the age of the patient in relation to the joint mobility achieved, strength, sensibility, cosmetic inconveniences and the return to previous employment. Out of 19 surviving upper limbs and three feet, the results were classified as excellent and good after Tamai's and Chen's methods. The best results were found after sharp lesions but the investigation revealed that even in severe avulsion lesions, it proved possible to obtain good results. It is thus not possible to establish definite directives for the indications for replantation. The final decision concerning reconstruction cannot be made until after contact with one of the departments in which replantation can be undertaken.