[Fingerreplantation results since 1972 (author's transl)]

With the use of microvascular techniques 31 out of 45 fingers were successful replanted since 1972. A primary reconstruction of all structures was performed, without bone shortening. Vein-grafts had to be used extensively. The microvascular and digital nerve repairs were performed with 11/0 nylon. The microvascular anastomosis was performed starting at the posterior wall, and progressively coming to the anterior wall, without rotation of the clamps. The results of near total amputations were always good. In complete guillotine amputations the successrate was 75%. In crush lesions 59% and in avulsions 40% success was obtained. After a period for improvement of our microsurgical techniques the results were 90%, 91% and 40% respectively. The functional rehabilitation of the replanted fingers resulted in a useful hand in crush and avulsion trauma and in a very useful hand in guillotine lesions.