Pune doctor performed 6-hour-long complex hand re-implantation surgery 

Pune, January 04, 2024: In an extremely rare incident, a city based  achieved a medical milestone by successfully conducting an arm-level re-implantation on Diwali, the festival of triumph and homecoming. 

This extraordinary feat was accomplished by a skilled team of medical professionals led by Dr. Sumit Saxena, a plastic and cosmetic surgeon and consultant at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune.

The patient, Mr. Ramesh (name changed), had a life-altering accident while traveling through Dive Ghat on a bike. His right upper limb was amputated at the arm level when he was struck by a truck in the early hours of the day. Promptly brought to the hospital for treatment, Dr. Sumit Saxena immediately took charge of the situation.

In a marathon six-hour surgery, Dr. Saxena and his team undertook the challenging task of salvaging the severed limb. Dr. Saxena emphasized the critical nature of the operation, stating, “Time is the key in these surgeries, and all major structures, including vessels, nerves, muscles, tendons, and bones, were repaired within the crucial six-hour window. The patient’s condition was critical due to significant blood loss.”

The surgery was particularly complex due to the high level of amputation, posing risks to life and requiring a meticulous approach. Dr. Saxena acknowledged the technical difficulties involved, stating, “Recovery becomes poor at the higher level of amputation, and there is a threat to life because of chances of reperfusion injury. A close watch is required postoperatively.”

“This type of surgery is unique in nature, rarely performed, and even more rarely successful,” remarked Dr. Saxena. “It is critical to salvage the patient after these reimplantation, making them truly rare cases.”

The patient, Mr. Ramesh, was discharged after a few weeks when he finally recovered. Given the additional fractures he sustained, he is currently under observation. Remarkably, the patient demonstrated a swift recovery within 15 days, a testament to the expertise and comprehensive care provided by the hospital. 

Despite the festive occasion of Diwali, the medical team at the hospital in Hadapsar led by Dr. Saxena, demonstrated unwavering commitment by foregoing personal celebrations to prioritize the patient’s well-being. The successful outcome of this complex surgery not only prevented a potential disaster for Mr. Ramesh but also exemplified the true essence of Diwali – the triumph of light over darkness.

This successful arm level reimplantation highlights Sahyadri Hospitals’ position as a center of medical expertise, pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible in the field of reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Saxena expressed his gratitude to the dedicated team that contributed to the success of the surgery, including Dr. Tapadia (Orthopedic), Dr. Rupa Abraham (Anesthetist), Dr. Inayat (Orthopedic), Dr. Manish (Assistant), Brother Dharmendra, Sister Priyanka, and all ICU and ward staff. Sahyadri Hospital provided crucial support in the emergency to safeguard the patient’s interests.