Evaluation of the effectiveness of sensory reeducation following digital replantation and revascularization.

Abstract

Sensory recovery following digital replantation plays an important role in the restoration of hand function. Twelve patients with twenty-four replanted or revascularized digits were randomly selected to enter a program of sensory reeducation, and another 15 patients with 22 replanted or revascularized digits were selected as controls who did not receive sensory reeducation. A moving two-point discrimination and a Semmes-Weinstein pressure threshold test were evaluated for monitoring the sensory recovery. The period of sensory reeducation was 18.83 weeks on average, and the mean follow-up time was 11.94 months. The group that received sensory reeducation significantly improved to a better degree of moving two-point discrimination and Semmes-Weinstein threshold level by both univariate and multiple regression analysis. We suggest that sensory reeducation should be an integral part of the postoperative rehabilitation protocol following digital replantation and revascularization.