Lifestyle Changes

After getting a hand/arm transplant, it may feel like a full-time job to keep up with all of the medical appointments. Recipients will have fewer medical appointments as the transplant heals.

• Recipients will still need to do hand and arm exercises at home to continue healing and maximize hand function. It may take several months, or possibly longer, before a hand/arm transplant recipient can or should attempt more than mild physical activities with their new hand(s)/arm(s).

• Recipients should set up a daily routine for taking medicines as it is important to take medications in the right dosage and at the right time every day to prevent upper limb rejection.

• Transplant teams recommend that recipients live within a reasonable driving distance of a medical center for the rest of their lives.

• A caregiver will be needed to help with recovery. This includes help with getting to appointments, support and reminders for taking medications, and assistance with therapy in the clinic and at home. Learn more in Caregiver’s Role

• Caregivers will need to help with activities of daily living including mobility, eating/drinking, toileting, showering, etc. Learn more in Caregiver’s Role

Avoid scratches and cuts

Even small scratches and injuries can cause a rejection episode. When you take anti-rejection medicines, you are more likely to get an infection.¹

Protect skin from sunburn

It is important for hand/arm transplant recipients to protect their skin from sunburns. People who take anti-rejection medicines have a higher chance of getting skin cancer. Getting a sunburn can also cause an organ rejection episode.²

Maintain a healthy diet

After your hand/arm transplant, you will work with a dietitian to create a healthy-eating plan. Maintaining a healthy diet is important for recovery and to prevent infection.³