After an amputation at work, which preservation method is most appropriate to optimize finger reattachment?

• A. Wrap in gauze, then pack it in dry ice.
• B. Wrap in moistened gauze, place in plastic bag, immerse the bag in ice water.
• C. Wrap in gauze and place directly in bed of crushed ice.
• D. Wrap in plastic and immerse it in saline at room temperature.

Answer: (B)

Cooling the amputated part to a low, nonfreezing temperature while keeping it moist and sterile is essential to maximize tissue viability for reattachment. Wrapping the finger in moistened sterile gauze prevents desiccation, and placing it in a sealed plastic bag keeps the moisture and reduces contamination risk. Immersing that bag in ice water provides about 4°C cooling, which slows cellular metabolism and minimizes ischemic injury without freezing the tissue. Direct contact with crushed ice or dry ice can cause freezing injuries, while room-temperature saline immersion doesn’t provide the needed cooling and can promote bacterial growth. This method best preserves the tissue for possible reattachment.