J Reconstr Microsurg 2009; 25(2): 111-115
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1090618
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Eleven-Year Follow-up of Cross-Leg Replantation for Traumatic Bilateral Amputation

Sophie Ricketts1 , Richard De Steiger1 , Alan Breidahl2
  • 1Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia
  • 2Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
21 October 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

The advent of microsurgery has allowed the replantation of traumatically amputated limbs. Replantation of a severed limb to the contralateral stump in bilateral traumatic amputation, however, is rarer, and criticisms include a prolonged hospital stay and complications. A 54-year-old man was caught in a paper-pulping machine and suffered bilateral lower limb amputation rendering his left lower leg unsalvageable. The right lower leg, after debridement however, was suitable for replantation to the left stump. This replantation was performed successfully. The patient was rehabilitated with a contralateral prosthesis and ambulates with a walking stick. At 11-year follow-up the patient has a preference for his replanted leg in contrast to his contralateral prosthesis and has suffered no long-term complications. In addition, from a psychological perspective, he has experienced restoration of perceived body length with the cross-leg replantation.

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Sophie RickettsM.B.B.S. B.Med.Sci. (Hons.) 

33 Leander Street, Footscray

Victoria 3011, Australia

Email: sophie_ricketts@optusnet.com.au

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