Temporary ectopic implantation for salvage of amputated digits.

Temporary ectopic implantation for salvage of amputated parts is a fascinating idea. The first successful case, to our knowledge, of preserving digits by means of temporary ectopic implantation to the contralateral forearm is presented and this treatment concept is discussed. The indication for temporary ectopic implantation is an amputation injury with associated extensive soft tissue damage in which immediate replantation with either adequate shortening or preservation of length does not seem feasible, although the amputated part itself is uninjured and should therefore be salvaged. The groin, axilla and lower arm are compared as possible recipient sites for ectopic implantation. Early replantation of the ectopic implanted parts will provide superior functional results although replantation may be technically more demanding. The function of a replanted extremity after ectopic implantation will probably always be inferior to a comparable, immediately replanted extremity.