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DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1810010
Upper Extremity Transplant Rehabilitation Protocol

Abstract
Background
Multilevel upper extremity transplant presents unique rehabilitation challenges due to the complexity of restoring function and integration across multiple joints and tissue types.
Materials and Methods
This article outlines the development and implementation of a pioneering rehabilitation protocol designed specifically for recipients of upper extremity transplant.
Results
The rehabilitation protocol was structured in four progressive phases, emphasizing early preservation, neuromuscular re-education, activities of daily living retraining, and return to society.
Discussion
The initial phase focuses on correct patient selection and preparation, wound healing, edema management, and maintaining passive range of motion while protecting the vascular anastomoses. As healing progresses, a tailored exercise regimen incorporating mirror therapy, task-oriented activities, and proprioceptive training is introduced to facilitate cortical remapping and sensory recovery.
Conclusion
Multidisciplinary collaboration, including physiatrists and occupational or physical therapists, is crucial in addressing their recovery.
Keywords
hand transplantation - rehabilitation - functional recovery - motor re-education - occupational therapy - nerve regenerationPatients' Consent
Written informed consent was obtained from the patient(s) for publication of this case report and any accompanying images.
Ethical Approval
This study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee, and conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and applicable national guidelines.
Publikationsverlauf
Artikel online veröffentlicht:
20. August 2025
© 2025. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, permitting unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction so long as the original work is properly cited. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
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