Fingertip replantation (zone I) without venous anastomosis: clinical experience and outcome analysis

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report our experience of fingertip replantation without venous anastomosis using alternate method to counter post-operative venous congestion. METHODS: 30 Patients (18 men and 12 women) with 30 fingertip amputations (Tamai zone I) were treated with artery-only anastomosis fingertip replantation between March 2010 and July 2014. Postoperative venous outflow was maintained by allowing bleeding through wound gaps combined with topical (12500(u):250mlNS) and systemic (4000 IU SC once daily) heparin. The outcomes of replantation were evaluated using standard evaluating systems. RESULTS: The average duration of hospital stay was 10 days (range 7–14 days). Twenty-eight (93 %) replanted fingertips survived. Five replanted fingertip experienced postoperative vascular crisis. The estimated post-operative blood loss was about 200–450 ml (mean, 292 ml). Follow-up period ranged from 12 to 24 months (average, 18 months). At final follow-up examinations, the average value of static two point discrimination test was 5.6 mm (range 3–9 mm) and Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test was 3.35 g (range 2.83–4.56 g). The mean range of motion of distal interphalangeal joint was 65.2° (range 0–90°) and all patients returned to their work within 7–18 weeks (average, 11 weeks). CONCLUSION: Artery-only fingertip replantation can provide satisfactory cosmetic and functional results. Adequate venous outflow can be obtained by allowing minimal external bleeding through wound gaps combined with topical and systemic heparin.