Lower limb replantation. A report of nine cases.

An analysis of nine replantations of completely amputated lower limbs is presented in this paper. Four cases were successful, including two at the level of the distal third of the tibia, one through the midfoot, and one at the proximal third of the tibia. The latter case involved the replantation of the shortened limb followed by a Syme's amputation of the foot to preserve a functional below-knee amputation level. In each successful case protective sensibility, bony union, and a stable stance and functional gait has been achieved, thereby eliminating a prosthetic requirement.