Austrian Surgeons Perform Double Forearm and Hand Transplant

Surgeons in Austria report they have performed what is believed to be the world's first double forearm and hand transplant operation.

Franz Jamnig, 41, underwent the 14-hour procedure on February 19 at Innsbruck University Clinic. Doctors who revealed details of the operation this week said it appeared to be a success and that Jamnig was undergoing 3-hour-long physiotherapy sessions daily during which his new fingers were being moved passively. .

"I am feeling very well. It feels as if these are my own hands," Jamnig told reporters from his hospital bed.

Surgeons said this was the first transplant operation involving a patient whose amputation had been very high, leaving only a stump below the elbow. They said Jamnig should be able to bend his fingers in a year but that it would take longer for him to regain the feeling in his fingertips.

Thus far, the doctors said a combination of cortisone and the immunosuppressive drug tacrolimus had proved effective in dealing with rejection.

Other Sources: Austrian Media