What is Hand Transplant used for?
A hand transplant is a treatment option for people who have had one or both hands amputated. It involves receiving one or two donor hands and a portion of the forearms from a deceased donor. The goal of a hand transplant is to improve the recipient's quality of life and provide some function and sensation in the new hands. However, it requires lifelong commitment to treatment, including taking immunosuppressant medications, regular physical therapy, and follow-up care.
How to prepare for Hand Transplant?
Before undergoing a hand transplant evaluation, individuals should focus on maintaining good general health and meeting the eligibility criteria for a hand transplant. This includes not having any serious medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, or untreatable cancers, not having had recent serious infections, being a non-smoker, not abusing alcohol or illegal drugs, and completing a financial evaluation of post-transplant care expenses with a member of the transplant team. Additionally, candidates should be prepared to undergo a comprehensive physical exam, blood tests, X-rays, and a mental and emotional health evaluation. They should also be willing to commit to lifelong immunosuppressant medications, regular physical therapy, and ongoing health care appointments to monitor the condition of their donor hands. It's important to note that the specific preparations for a hand transplant evaluation may vary depending on the individual's unique circumstances and the requirements of the transplant center. Therefore, it's essential to follow the guidance provided by the transplant team through the evaluation process.
How is Hand Transplant conducted?
A hand transplant evaluation is a comprehensive process to determine if a person is a suitable candidate for a hand transplant. The evaluation typically includes a physical exam to assess overall health, blood tests to check blood and tissue type, a mental and emotional health evaluation, a review of medical history to ensure no chronic nerve conditions or serious medical problems, and consideration of lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol or drug use. The purpose of this evaluation is to ensure the person is in good overall health and has the necessary support and commitment to undergo the surgery and follow-up care. If the person meets the eligibility criteria and is deemed a suitable candidate, they will be added to the waiting list for a donor hand.
How are Hand Transplant results reported?
Hand transplant results are reported based on the recipient's ability to regain hand function and sensation. Recipients may be able to perform various tasks such as picking up small objects, lifting heavier objects, using tools, tying shoes, catching a ball, and using a knife and fork. However, there is no guarantee on how much hand function will be regained, and outcomes may vary from person to person.
Understanding the report
Hand transplant results are interpreted based on the recipient's ability to regain hand function and sensation post-surgery. The extent of regained function varies and depends on factors such as blood type, tissue type, skin color, age, sex, hand size, muscle bulk, and the recipient's commitment to post-transplant care, including taking immunosuppressant medications and attending regular physical therapy and health care appointments. The outcomes are highly individualized and depend on the specific case and the person's body's response to the transplant.