Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 11/24/2009
Good candidates for this procedure include persons with thumb or multiple digit amputation. Injury to multiple digits is an important patient selection criterion, since in some cases the least damaged digits may be shifted to the least injured...
or most useful stump. Patient exclusion is neither clear-cut nor absolute. Generally, severe crushing or avulsing (tearing away) injuries to the fingers may make replantation difficult, but venous grafts may help replace injured blood vessels. Additionally, older persons may have arteriosclerosis that frequently impairs function in blood vessels, especially in small vessels. Special efforts may be made to replant fingers if the person's livelihood (such as professional musical performance) depends on absolute finger control.
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This animation shows the function of the main skeletal muscles in the body. At the microscopic level, artists have animated how actin and myosin, (two muscle proteins) interact to make muscles contract.
To save a detached finger for reattachment surgery, it should be wrapped in a moist paper towel and put on ice (A). First the surgeon will reattach the blood vessels and nerves of the finger (B). The bone may be repaired with wires (C), and tendons are repaired (D). Skin and muscle wounds are also closed during the procedure. (Illustration by GGS Inc.)
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Other Information
Finger reattachment (or replacement) is defined as reattachment of the part that has been completely amputated. Replantation refers to reattachment of a completely severed part, meaning there is no physical connection between the part that has been cut off and the person. Reattachment can be surgically performed for the finger and such other detached body parts, as the hand or arm.
From http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_gx5198/is_2004/ai_n19119766
Other Information
Orthopedic complaints are the most common reason to seek medical care.
From: About.com
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