AIIMS Mangalagiri Achieves Historic Medical Milestone with First Mid-Arm Replantation in Andhra Pradesh
The plastic surgery department at AIIMS Mangalagiri has etched its name in medical history by successfully performing a trans-humeral amputation replantation, marking the first such procedure ever conducted in Andhra Pradesh. This groundbreaking surgery involved reattaching a mid-arm segment that had been completely severed, showcasing the institute's advanced capabilities in trauma care and reconstructive microsurgery.
Multidisciplinary Team Executes Complex Eight-Hour Procedure
Led by Dr. Shanthakumar Shivalingappa, with crucial support from Dr. Likhitha Reddy and Dr. Manoj, the surgical team collaborated seamlessly with specialists from orthopaedics, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, and anaesthesia. Utilizing meticulous microsurgical techniques, the medical professionals painstakingly reconstructed major blood vessels, stabilized the bone, and repaired muscles along with soft tissues to successfully reattach the amputated limb.
Hospital authorities confirmed that this highly demanding surgery lasted nearly eight hours, reflecting the complexity involved. Such advanced microsurgical replantation procedures remain exceptionally rare and are typically available only at a limited number of specialized medical centers with cutting-edge expertise.
Patient's Journey: From Devastating Injury to Remarkable Recovery
The patient, a 25-year-old man from Jharkhand working as a mill machine-load operator for a road construction company, suffered a severe crush injury when his left arm became trapped in a tar machine near Hanuman Junction on February 22. He was immediately rushed to AIIMS Mangalagiri along with the amputated limb, initiating a race against time.
Given the extensive nature of the crush and avulsion injury, doctors initially informed the patient about the extremely slim chances of limb survival. However, recognizing the critical six-hour window required for restoring blood circulation, the medical team made the bold decision to proceed with emergency replantation surgery.
Post-Surgical Care and Future Treatment Plans
Following the initial procedure, the patient was closely monitored in the Critical Care Unit for 14 days, with medical staff vigilantly tracking limb survival, kidney function, and overall organ stability. Five days after the replantation, surgeons covered the surgical wound with a skin graft to promote healing and protection.
Due to severe nerve avulsion, complete nerve repair could not be performed during the primary surgery. The medical team has planned secondary procedures, including nerve reconstruction and additional bone fixation, to optimize functional recovery. Currently, the patient remains stable and is recovering in the ward, with expectations for discharge soon after further monitoring.
Institutional Recognition and Statewide Impact
AIIMS Mangalagiri Executive Director Prof. Dr. Ahanthem Santa Singh extended heartfelt congratulations to the multidisciplinary team, emphasizing that this landmark procedure highlights the institute's advanced trauma care and microsurgical capabilities. This achievement marks a significant milestone for reconstructive surgery throughout Andhra Pradesh, potentially paving the way for more complex limb salvage operations in the region.
The successful mid-arm replantation not only represents a personal victory for the young patient but also establishes AIIMS Mangalagiri as a pioneering center for advanced microsurgical interventions, offering new hope for patients facing similar traumatic injuries across the state.
