Microvascular surgery in young children.

We present a series of 8 children, all less than 6 years of age, which demonstrates the feasibility of primary microvascular replantation or reconstruction of amputated or devascularized parts in children. The function and the appearance obtained were excellent, and the potential for growth was maintained. Fortunately, the vessels were larger in these young children than one would expect. It is apparent that in a healthy, stable child, the careful application of microsurgical principles is an excellent method for salvaging devascularized or amputated parts that are vital for function or appearance.