What is the common risk if an avulsed body part is not preserved properly?

When an avulsed body part is not preserved properly, the most significant risk is the inability to reattach it successfully. Proper preservation includes keeping the avulsed part clean, cool, and moist, such as by wrapping it in a sterile cloth and placing it in a sealed plastic bag that is then kept in ice. If the part is not preserved correctly, the cells and tissues begin to degrade quickly due to lack of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cellular death. This degradation makes it extremely challenging, if not impossible, for medical professionals to reattach the part later, as the tissue's viability has been compromised.

While infection, uncontrolled bleeding, and necrosis are also important considerations in the context of avulsions, they are secondary to preserving the viability of the tissue needed for potential reattachment. Infection can occur if the avulsed area isn't handled properly, and uncontrolled bleeding and necrosis can happen due to the initial injury. However, the immediate concern after an avulsion is ensuring that the avulsed part can be reattached, which hinges on how well it is preserved.