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The 24-hour preservation of amputated rabbit limbs was investigated by perfusion with oxygenated fluorocarbon emulsion (Fluosol-43)using an extracorporeal circulation system. Eighteen limbs amputated at the thigh were immediately stored in ischemic condition at 4℃ for one hour, and were perfused at 10℃ for 21 hours. In 12 limbs, replantation was initiated at the period of 22 hours, and recirculation commenced at the time of 24 hours after amputation. In all cases, the viability of gastrocnemius muscle was confirmed by the evoked potential (M-wave) which was observed at the time of 24 hours after amputation. All rabbits survived more than 9 hours after the limb replantation, and 6 rabbits were alive over 4 months until their sacrifice. In histological examination of muscular tissue through the light and electron microscopes ; severe atrophic change was not observed in spite of the denervated condition. The following conclusions were obtained : 1) It is possible to preserve an amputated limb for 24 hours without serious damage, under perfusion with fluorocarbon emulsion at 10℃. 2) In major limb replantation after 24-hour preservation under FC perfusion, the limb can be totally alive, and the survival of the host is secured without replantation toxemia.

The 24-hour preservation of amputated rabbit limbs was investigated by perfusion with oxygenated fluorocarbon emulsion (Fluosol-43)using an extracorporeal circulation system. Eighteen limbs amputated at the thigh were immediately stored in ischemic condition at 4℃ for one hour, and were perfused at 10℃ for 21 hours. In 12 limbs, replantation was initiated at the period of 22 hours, and recirculation commenced at the time of 24 hours after amputation. In all cases, the viability of gastrocnemius muscle was confirmed by the evoked potential (M-wave) which was observed at the time of 24 hours after amputation. All rabbits survived more than 9 hours after the limb replantation, and 6 rabbits were alive over 4 months until their sacrifice. In histological examination of muscular tissue through the light and electron microscopes ; severe atrophic change was not observed in spite of the denervated condition. The following conclusions were obtained : 1) It is possible to preserve an amputated limb for 24 hours without serious damage, under perfusion with fluorocarbon emulsion at 10℃. 2) In major limb replantation after 24-hour preservation under FC perfusion, the limb can be totally alive, and the survival of the host is secured without replantation toxemia.