The possible applications of a composite skin and subcutaneous vein graft in the replantation of amputated digits.

A composite graft of skin and attached vein was taken from the dorsal aspect of the foot and used in the replantation of 6 amputated digits in 5 patients which were complicated by loss of skin and blood vessels and with exposed bone and tendon. The 5 replanted digits survived in 4 patients. Complete survival of the skin graft was achieved in two digits and partial necrosis occurred in three digits. The technique is put forward as a possible method of vascular reconstruction in which skin loss is complicated by exposure of the deeper structures i.e., bone, tendon and/or joint.