Secondary surgeries after replantation

Abstract

Although digit replantation techniques and indications have evolved over time, resulting in improved overall outcomes, achieving ideal functional recovery remains a challenge. Secondary surgeries for replanted digits can be divided temporally into early- (weeks to months) and late-stage (months to years) procedures, with skin-coverage procedures being the most common in the early period and tenolysis being the most common procedures in the late postoperative stage. This article reviews the most common procedures, including available literature on secondary replant procedures involving nerve, tendon, bone, joint, and skin procedures. However, further larger-scale studies are necessary to establish clear guidelines regarding both postoperative protocols and indications for secondary surgery.