Late results in replanted digits. Is replantation of a single digit worthwhile?

During the period 1980-1989 35 patients with successfully replanted digits could be selected. Only 17 patients with 32 long fingers and 2 thumbs replanted were prepared to cooperate for this retrospective study, looking for the late functional results. Mobility of the replanted digits was measured by the TAM-value. Power was indicated by grip strength and tip pinch. Weber two-point discrimination test and Von Frey test were used to investigate sensibility. Most patients show cold-intolerance. Mobility was worse for the more proximal replantations. Replantations distal to PIP do functionally very well. Therefore single digit amputations should be considered as an indication for replantation, especially amputations distal to the pip. Ring and little finger replantations have a better mobility than index and middle fingers. Mobility in younger patients is also better. Grip strength and tip pinch are respectively 66% and 73% of the normal values. All patients (except 2) could return to their work in a reasonably short time (average 5 months).