The Spanish experience with hand, forearm, and arm transplantation

Abstract

This article summarizes the findings from 3 recipients of hand allografts, including a description of the preparatory surgery and the transplant and secondary procedures to enhance the function of the hand, forearm, and arm allografts. The study focuses on the complications and disability reported by each patient, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The few complications were controlled successfully with medical treatment. Hand transplantation is a major reconstructive procedure that requires careful medical follow-up. The authors provide the first report of a significant improvement in disabilities of the upper limb as a result of hand allotransplantation.