Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: Your limb is torn off - now what?
Feb 29, 2020
Discover the extraordinary advancements in limb reattachment thanks to modern microsurgery. Hear the gripping tale of Eddie Knowles, who underwent a life-changing surgery after a severe injury. Learn the critical steps to take in an emergency and how medical technology is evolving towards limb regrowth. Delve into the intriguing science behind natural regeneration, including a breakthrough case of finger regrowth using innovative techniques. This episode is packed with technical insights, personal stories, and a healthy dose of humor.
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First Limb Reattachment
- 12-year-old Everett Knowles Jr. had his arm severed by a train in 1962.
- Doctors successfully reattached his arm, marking the first successful limb reattachment surgery.
Age Advantage in Reattachment
- The success of Knowles's surgery was partly due to his young age.
- Children's arteries can self-seal more effectively, which aids in reattachment.
Toe-to-Thumb Replacements
- Doctors perfected toe-to-thumb replacements in the 1960s.
- This is because thumbs provide significant hand utility and big toes are less crucial.