Dry ice should not be used, as this will permanently damage the tissue of the severed finger. It is important if replantation of the finger is to be considered, that immediate medical attention is obtained. Replantation is generally not possible for fingers that have been separated from the body for more than 12 hours. In cases where the injury is further into the hand or arm, the time to reattachment is even shorter, as muscle tissue must be reattached within 6 hours from the time of injury.