How should amputated parts be transported for preservation?

• A. In a container with ice
• B. In dry ice
• C. At room temperature
• D. In hot water

Answer: (A)

Preserving an amputated part hinges on slowing the tissue’s metabolic pace and protecting it from drying out and infection so that reattachment remains possible. Keeping the part cool is the practical way to achieve that in the field. Placing the amputated part in a sterile bag, wrapping it in sterile, moistened gauze, and keeping the bag on ice (in a cooler or container with ice) maintains near-freezing temperatures that slow cellular damage without freezing the tissue. This balance helps preserve tissue viability during transport.

Charging temperatures outside this range speeds deterioration. Transporting at room temperature allows rapid bacterial growth and tissue decay, while hot water would increase tissue damage and infection risk. Dry ice is too cold and can cause frostbite and cellular injury if it contacts the tissue. That’s why the ice approach is the recommended method.