Replantation: A Guide for Home Care
This handout tells you how to care for yourself after replantation. A nurse will go over this information with you. If you have any questions or concerns when you are home, please call one of the numbers listed at the end of this handout.
What is Replantation?
Replantation is surgery to reattach an amputated part, such as a finger, hand or arm. The procedure is performed by a plastic surgeon. It may take 8-10 hours.
Home Care
1. If you notice your reattached part becomes bluish or cool, call your doctor.
2. Keep the ace or splint dry and clean at all times. Do not remove the dressing. You may shower by covering your dressing with a plastic bag and taping it shut.
3 If you have a pin that is visible, dip a cotton swab in normal saline solution. Swab around the pin using the cotton swab twice a day.
4. Do not to move your reattached part until after therapy is started. This will be several months after your surgery. It will be necessary to use your other hand for eating, dressing, etc.
5. Do not smoke. Smoking will impair the circulation to your replanted part. You may discuss this with your doctor on your first clinic visit.
6. Do not eat or drink anything with caffeine in it. It can impair circulation.
7. Do not wear any clothing that would be tight on your replanted part.
Activity
Wear a sling whenever you are out of bed. Your reattached part should be elevated above the level of your heart and across your chest. When sleeping, rest your reattached part on top of several pillows. This will help with circulation.
Phone Numbers
F4/2 Plastic Surgery Clinic (608) 263-7502
Nights, weekends, and holidays, call (608) 262-0486. This will give you the paging operator. Ask for the Plastic Surgery resident on call. Give the operator your name and phone number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.
If you live out of the area, please call 1-800-323-8942.
The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #7038.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 06/30/2011
Copyright © 06/30/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #4533
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