Long-term results of major upper extremity replantations

Abstract

We analyzed the long-term functional outcome in patients with major upper extremity replantations. Two patients had amputations proximal to the elbow joint, two had elbow disarticulations and five patients had amputations at the forearm. The mean age was 24 and the mean follow-up time was 18 years. Six patients have undergone secondary operations. The mean grip strength was restored to 34% of the contralateral extremity. Protective sensation was restored in all patients. According to Chen's functional recovery scale, five patients had excellent, two had good, and two had fair results. Grip strength, two-point discrimination, ranges of motion and Chen's scale did not improve after 5 years. However, Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing and cold intolerance continued to improve up to 10 and 12 years, respectively. Replantation of an upper extremity proximal to the wrist joint satisfactorily restored the upper extremity function.