Replantation or revascularisation injuries in children: incidence, epidemiology, and outcome

We studied the epidemiology, incidence, and outcome among children and adolescents admitted for possible replantation or revascularisation of an injured upper extremity during the period 1998–2008. Twenty-nine patients with 38 finger injuries were admitted. Eight of the 29 had a severe amputation injury. The annual rate of all amputations in the referral area of 300 000 children was 0.42/100 000 children/year and total amputation injuries 0.18/100 000 children/year. Most injuries occurred in patients aged 12–15 years. The survival after total amputations was 6/14 and after subtotal amputations 13/15. Mean total active movement after replantation was 84° (n = 5) and after revascularisation 152° (n = 10). Four patients were re-examined in the outpatient department and nine answered a questionnaire. Cold intolerance was reported by most of the patients. Patients’ satisfaction with outcome of treatment was good.