24-year-old factory worker undergoes successful hand reimplantation at Delhi's Dr. RML Hospital

New Delhi [India], October 4 : A 24-year-old factory worker from Bahadurgarh, Haryana, has undergone successful hand reimplantation surgery at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital in New Delhi.
The worker's right hand was completely severed by a laser woodcutting machine, and he was rushed to the hospital on September 28. A skilled team of plastic and orthopaedic surgeons worked for nine hours to save his hand, according to hospital authorities.
The patient picked up his amputated hand and sought immediate medical attention. He was initially taken to a local hospital before being referred to Dr. RML Hospital in New Delhi.
Upon arrival, he was immediately transferred to the Department of Plastic Surgery, where a dedicated team, led by Prof. Dr. Mukesh Sharma, commenced the operation, the hospital said.
The success of the surgery was made possible through coordinated efforts involving OT nursing and paramedical staff, the blood bank, and laboratory services. After the procedure, the patient was kept in intensive care for three days and is now reported to be in stable condition.
Speaking on the achievement, Dr. Sameek Bhattacharya, Director Professor and Head of Plastic Surgery at RML Hospital, emphasised the importance of swift action in such cases.
"If the amputated part is brought to the hospital within six hours, there is a significantly higher chance of successful replantation," Dr. Bhattacharya explained. He added that the severed hand should be cleaned with water or sterile saline, wrapped in moistened gauze, and placed in an airtight bag, which should then be stored in an icebox.
Dr. Sharma's team, which included senior residents Dr. Sonika, Dr. Sukriti, Dr. Dhawal, Dr. Bully, Dr. Vignesh, and orthopaedic surgeons Dr. Manjesh and Dr. Subham, conducted the complex procedure. With support from the anaesthesia team, led by Prof. Dr. Namita Arora and assisted by Dr. Shubhi, Dr. Ashutosh, and Dr. Sonal, the operation was performed using advanced microvascular techniques. Over the nine-hour procedure, surgeons meticulously fixed the bones and tendons and reconnected the arteries, veins, and nerves under a microscope.
RML Hospital, known for its state-of-the-art facilities, is equipped with a highly trained surgical team available around the clock for such emergencies. The hospital's anaesthesia department, led by Dr. Neerja Banerjee, provides continuous support for critical surgeries.
Prof. Dr. Ajay Shukla, Director and Medical Superintendent of RML Hospital, praised the team's dedication and highlighted the hospital's commitment to offering high-end surgeries free of cost, ensuring accessible healthcare for all.