In world first, Chinese surgeons successfully reattach man's severed legs
A Chinese factory worker whose legs were severed in a workplace accident has regained the ability to walk after doctors surgically reattached both limbs, marking what is believed to be a global medical first.
In a groundbreaking medical feat, Chinese surgeons successfully reattached a man's severed legs in an unprecedented eight-hour overnight operation, marking the world's first such procedure. The 51-year-old patient, identified only as Jiang, lost both legs on December 2, 2024, after they were severed by a factory machine.
The life-saving surgery was performed at Suzhou Ruihua Orthopedic Hospital, located approximately 100 kilometers west of Shanghai. Following the intricate eight-hour procedure, Jiang underwent almost 20 months of rigorous rehabilitation. Now, he is able to walk with the aid of a supportive frame and manage most daily tasks independently. Remarkably, sensation has been fully restored down to his ankles.
The Jiangsu Trauma and Treatment Association, a network of hospitals in the region, declared the double-thigh replantation as the world's first successful instance of its kind. Unlike previous single-thigh replantations, this procedure involved the complete reattachment of both thighs, allowing Jiang to regain the ability to walk. The success of this case showcases China's expertise in microsurgical trauma, according to the association.
Li Changsong, director of the hospital's trauma orthopedics department, expressed hope that Jiang could eventually reduce his dependence on mobility aids and potentially walk unassisted. Jiang's journey to recovery was fraught with challenges, including severe complications. His external fixators, which stabilized the bones using pins and screws, were successfully removed in March 2025.
Post-removal, Jiang was able to lift his legs while lying in bed and experienced the return of sensation to his mid-calf region, leading to his hospital discharge.
However, Jiang's recovery was complicated by skin necrosis, a condition resulting from poor blood supply causing tissue death, and a comminuted fracture, a severe bone break that resulted in multiple fragments. These complications further complicated his healing process. Recent images from The Yangtse Evening Post depict Jiang standing with the support of a walking frame, showcasing extensive surgical scars.
While a specific timeline for Jiang's ability to walk unassisted has not been provided, his ongoing progress will hinge on advancements in muscle strength, nerve regeneration, and bone healing.
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