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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100097.htm

Replantation of digits - series—Indications

Indications

Overview

The surgery is recommended in a case of amputated fingers or toes, with salvaged digits in a condition that would enable replantation. This usually requires a clean cut across the digit, with minimal damage to the digital vessels and nerve. Amputated digits should be brought to the hospital with the patient, wrapped in moist paper towels, in a plastic bag, and on ice. Ice should be placed in a second plastic bag, into which the first plastic bag containing the severed digit is placed, to prevent direct contact between the ice and the severed digit.

Review Date 9/20/2022

Updated by: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.