Supermicrosurgical Experience pertaining to Replantation of Tamai Zone 1 Fingertip Amputations

With the advent of supermicrosurgery, the replantation of very distal finger amputations has become possible. The choice between replantation or flap surgeries in the treatment of Tamai Zone I finger amputations continues to be a matter of debate. This study aims to evaluate replantation results in Tamai Zone 1 finger amputations. The demographic characteristics and clinical results of 39 patients undergoing replantation for a Tamai Zone 1 finger amputation between 2018 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The Cold Intolerance Severity Score (CISS), two-point discrimination test (2-PD) and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) were calculated and recorded after a minimum follow-up period of 6 months. The great majority of patients were males (92.3%, n=36) who had suffered the injuries during work accidents (89.7%, n=35). The socioeconomic status of the patients showed a homogeneous distribution. Replant survival was achieved in 69.2% (n=27) of all fingers. The duration of the surgical procedure in patients who underwent vein repair was significantly longer (p<0.001). However, there was no significant relationship between vein repair and survival rate (p=0.348). This study shows that replantation is a surgical intervention that should be given priority in patients with Tamai Zone 1 amputations. In most cases of unsuccessful replantation, secondary recovery results are also acceptable. Future studies with larger case series are needed.