Using the Internet for rapid exchange of photographs and X-ray images to evaluate potential extremity replantation candidates.

OBJECTIVE: To implement a low-cost system of transmitting high-quality digital photographs of mutilating extremity injuries using the speed of the Internet.
DESIGN: A high-resolution digital camera and simple hardware and software platform are used to take and transmit images via electronic mail. The images are received within minutes by the consultant, and an assessment can be made.
RESULTS: A low-cost and high-quality system can easily be implemented. Images can be seen by consultants only a few minutes after they are obtained. The quality of the reproductions is excellent, and they are handled exactly as other photographs.
CONCLUSION: This technique can be widely applicable and inexpensive to initiate in any emergency room. It allows rapid assessment of extremity injuries and x-ray images by expert consultants, who can then evaluate the replantation or revascularization potential of extremity trauma cases. This can eliminate unnecessary and often expensive transfer of patients who are not candidates for replantation.