I am in NH and many winters I suffer major damage to my jap maples due to snow. I have 3 that have required "surgery". A waterfall, a viridis and a crimson queen are all quite large and each have had branches nearly ripped off. Over the years we have have had a lot of success with putting the branch back in place (as perfectly as possible), then wrapping it with a strip of heavy rubber (like a sink mat) then tightening a hose clamp around it. Each time the branches have survived. If it is a very large branch we also bungee-tie it to an upper branch. We keep it that way for a couple seasons(loosening the hose clamp as the tree grows). Eventually the branch can hold its own. Good luck.

Thank you.. that is reassuring... I'm hoping for the best.

Plastic grafting tape (sub vinyl electrician's tape, wrapped sticky side out) can be found at most nursery/greenhouse operations & most stores that cater to plant lovers. Properly applied, it offers great support and seals moisture in (bugs out), preventing tissue dessication and preserving water transport, which is a 'must', if the branch is to survive.

Al