The hand has a rather complex structure. Due to its functions, it is often subjected to injury. Injuries deprive the hand of its previous functionality, which can lead to disability and even incapacity. The development of microsurgery has allowed for hand reconstruction in a single operation. The anatomical similarity of hands and feet enables the transplantation of fingers, skin coverings, and even entire sections of the foot. Interestingly, the first finger from a foot was transplanted to a hand about a hundred years ago, but at that time, due to insufficient technological development, this operation did not find application.
Finger transplantation in Israel is truly a delicate art aimed at restoring the motor function of the fingers and the functionality of the hands.
There are several types of transplantation:
- transplantation of fingers removed as a result of an accident;
- transplantation of donor fingers;
- transplantation of fingers taken from the patient's foot.
- prosthetics – performed in cases of severe damage to the patient's own fingers or their loss or absence of donor fingers.
The most popular and promising has become autotransplantation, as it avoids issues of tissue incompatibility. The development of techniques for microsurgery has significantly increased the importance of transplantation, allowing for successful reconstruction of hands at the anatomical, nerve, and vascular levels.
Microsurgical operations in Israel are performed only by top-class surgeons. One operation includes several stages: trauma, vascular, creation of neurosurgical sutures, skin covering plastic;
Stages of finger transplantation:
- removal of damaged tissues and areas;
- restoration of bones;
- restoration of vessels, veins;
- restoration of nerve endings;
- restoration of muscles and tendons.
In the postoperative period, courses of gymnastics and physiotherapy are prescribed, which allows for the return of hand functionality. Transplanted fingers possess a full range of sensitivity, enabling patients to lead a full life.