Successful reimplantation of an amputated hand at CHIREC thanks to inter-hospital collaboration
CHIREC is proud to announce the success of an exceptional intervention following an emergency transfer requested by Erasme Hospital. A patient suffering from a traumatic hand amputation caused by an accident with a circular saw was treated at the end of February by the team of hand surgeons at CHIREC - site Delta. This emergency call is part of a collaboration set up between CHIREC to manage critical cases when surgeons at Hôpital Erasme are already mobilized, or in the presence of other vital emergencies. This cooperation demonstrates the willingness of Brussels hospitals to work hand in hand to guarantee the best possible care for patients, a particularly crucial issue in the current healthcare context in Belgium.
The operation, which lasted non-stop from 5.30pm to 6am, resulted in the successful reimplantation of the amputated hand. Fortunately, such a case is extremely rare. CHIREC's hand surgery department has developed surgeons capable of rising to this type of challenge. The story is all the more remarkable in that, at the end of the operation, the patient's hand gradually regained color and his fingers began to remobilize. A true medical victory for the whole team. The patient, currently recovering at the Delta Hand Revalidation Center, undergoes physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions 3 to 5 times a week.
A tribute to the profession
This success is a testament to the passion and dedication of CHIREC's medical teams. It highlights the beauty and nobility of the profession they practice every day. Offering a second chance to patients in distress, and seeing them recover, is the greatest reward they can receive. CHIREC will continue to work hard to ensure that every patient receives excellent care, in state-of-the-art facilities and with passionate medical teams.
Prevention and advice in the event of amputation
In the context of this exceptional operation, we would like to remind you of the importance of first aid in the event of accidental amputation. A few simple rules can significantly increase the chances of a successful re-implantation:
- Wrap the amputated part in a clean compress and place it in a watertight plastic bag.
- Place this bag in a container with water and ice cubes, to keep the amputated part at a very low temperature, without freezing it.
- Apply compression rather than tourniquets to the injured limb.
These first-aid measures, combined with prompt treatment, maximize the chances of recovery and successful reimplantation.
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