Comparison of functional results after reconstruction of the thumb

Abstract

Between 1980 and 2000, 26 pollicizations of the index finger and 32 transplantations of the second toe were performed for reconstruction of the thumb after traumatic loss. Twenty-three patients with index finger pollicization and 26 patients with second toe transplantation could be reviewed after an average follow-up of 6.4 years. Vascular complications occurred in two toe transplantations and one index finger pollicization. One transplanted toe was lost after vascular complications. Mobility of the interphalangeal joints was reduced after both procedures. Pinch grip was achieved in 20 of 23 patients after pollicization and 20 of 26 patients after second toe transplantation. Sensitivity was better after pollicization. The most common complaints were cold intolerance after both procedures. Fourty of 49 patients would have the operation again, nine patients would refuse thumb reconstruction.