Abstract
The aim of this article is to examine the elements that contribute to effective operation
of a specialized replantation center and to provide readers with a general idea of
the outcome of replantation services in India. A dedicated high-volume center coupled
with a sound referral system is the backbone of replantation services in a country.
A retrospective study was done on all patients who visited a level 1 trauma center
in India from November 1, 2017, to December 31, 2018, for various amputations. The
medical records and digital pictures of these patients were extracted from the records
and analyzed. During the study period, 77 replants were performed on 63 patients at
our center. Males were 68% of the study, mostly belonging to the 20 to 40 years age
group (63%). Thirty-four percent of cases were smokers. Agricultural injuries (49%)
were the most common cause of amputation. Finger replantation was the most common
type of replantation (82%). The rate of successful replantation was highest for scalp
(100%) followed by hand (71%) and thumb (67%). Setting up dedicated replantation services
is essential, especially in highly populated areas. Manpower, resources, and a protocol-led
approach help in achieving optimum results. A multidisciplinary team approach with
round-the-clock availability plays a vital role in intraoperative decision-making
and planning postoperative rehabilitation.
Keywords
finger replantation - scalp replantation - hand replantation - limb replantation -
replantation registry
