Bilateral Hand Transplant

In July 2015 The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia performed the first ever bilateral hand transplant on a child. I was fortunate enough to illustrate the procedure. The illustrations were used to educate the public about the steps of the procedure and were used as part of the hospital's press release.

Pre surgery

A pre surgery view of the patient and his arms.

First Bilateral Hand Transplant in a Child: Zion's Story

This is Zion's story. It chronicles his journey of getting two new hands. My illustrations are used to bring clarity to the surgical procedure.

Bone plates

Bone plates are used to mechanically attach the bones of the forearm. Care was taken to preserve the growth plate in the wrist, so the arm will continue to grow with the patient.

Arteries

Returning blood flow to the donor hands is essential. Attaching the major arteries keeps the tissue alive.

Muscles and Tendons

After the veins and nerves are reattached, over a dozen muscles and tendons are connected.

Skin Closure

The final step in the procedure is to close the skin.

Post Surgery

After a surgery that lasted more than half a day, the patient has new hands.