Liaison Consultation Psychiatry with Patients who Have Replantation Surgery to the Upper Limb

Abstract

Thirty-eight patients who had replantation surgery to the upper limb were studied and findings, case vignettes and specific liaison-consultation issues are presented. The assessment of the patient for pre-existing psychopathology, such as drug and alcohol abuse and personality abnormalities, is emphasised; the possibility of the amputation having been a deliberate, self-inflicted act is noted; and the roles of pre-accident stress and emotional conflict are discussed. Data concerning adverse post-operative emotional reactions are presented and body-image changes, including the disruption to body integrity and the reintegration of the bodily part, are described. The psychological aspects of replantation surgery are compared to other forms of surgery, in particular amputation and renal transplantation.