Hand Replantation Surgery.
Last updated Wednesday, February 09, 2005
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After surgeryWhat is the post-surgical care for a patient after hand replantation surgery? Patients are watched closely for the first 48 hours. The patient's
room is kept very warm after surgery to keep blood vessels dilated and
to prevent blood clot formation.
Blood thinning medication is required for up to a week after
surgery. This medication prevents clot formation, a major cause of
replantation failure.
Smoking and drinking caffeinated beverages is restricted for three
weeks from the time of surgery. Smoking and caffeine can increase
chances of clot formation in the repaired vessels leading to failure of
the replant.
The hand or arm is wrapped in a bulky bandage for protection and to
decrease swelling. Before leaving the hospital, these bulky dressings
are often changed to a smaller bandage and splint.
Therapy to restore motion is started before leaving the hospital.
Check with your doctor about your overall recovery time. What are the most frequent and most serious risks of hand replantation surgery? Blood clot formation can prevent blood flow to the reattached limb.
To reduce the risk of blood clots, special blood thinning medications
are given.
Because multiple tendons and bones are frequently injured some loss
of motion (stiffness) occurs after all replantations. More severe
crushing types of injuries result in a greater degree of stiffness. Disclaimer
This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.
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