History of upper extremity replantation in the Czech Republic and worldwide.

ABSTRACT

Replantation surgery is a specialization in plastic surgery which, in comparison with other disciplines, has a relatively short history of only forty years. Replantation surgery developed due to experience with macrovascular anastomosis and to the evolution of the operative microscope, special micro-instruments and ultra delicate suturing material. Due to these advances, it is possible to implement anastomosis of blood vessels with a diameter smaller than 1-2 mm. Each of the three pillars of microvascular surgery has its own history. This work outlines their use and the contribution of each to the development of microsurgery. Finally, it compares the development of replantation surgery in the Czech Republic and worldwide within a specific time frame.