A long-term review of digital replantation.

An analysis of the first 130 cases of digital revascularization and replantation performed at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, during the period 1970-1977, confirms the long-term functional value of these procedures provided that strict indications for replantation are adhered to. Patient satisfaction has been almost universal, and objective testing shows that the most satisfying aspect of the procedure is the quality of sensory return. Flexor tendon function and the range of joint movement, however, are universally poor, and all patients complain of sensitivity to cold. The thumb has been by far the most satisfactory digit to replant, and avulsion injuries gave the poorest results, from the point of view of both survival and long-term function.