Temporary ectopic implantation for salvage of amputated parts is a fas
cinating idea. The first successful case, to our knowledge, of preserv
ing digits by means of temporary ectopic implantation to the contralat
eral forearm is presented and this treatment concept is discussed. The
indication for temporary ectopic implantation is an amputation injury
with associated extensive soft tissue damage in which immediate repla
ntation with either adequate shortening or preservation of length does
not seem feasible, although the amputated part itself is uninjured an
d should therefore be salvaged. The groin, axilla and lower arm are co
mpared as possible recipient sites for ectopic implantation. Early rep
lantation of the ectopic implanted parts will provide superior functio
nal results although replantation may be technically more demanding. T
he function of a replanted extremity after ectopic implantation will p
robably always be inferior to a comparable, immediately replanted extr
emity.