Reconstruction of fingertip amputations by partial composite toe transfer with short vascular pedicle

Abstract

Five patients under 15 years-of-age, with a fingertip amputation through the nail plate, were treated with a custom-made partial toe transfer. Two of the patients had had previous attempts at surgical reconstruction using either a local flap or replantation. Delay between initial injury and reconstruction ranged from 2 to 60 days. In all cases the flap was harvested from the second toe. This "custom-made" compound transfer included the exact amount of pulp, nail bed and bone required for reconstruction. All flaps were harvested on a short vascular pedicle, with anastomoses performed at a digital level on the recipient site. Good to excellent cosmetic results were obtained in all cases, with a nearly normal-looking fingertip. Duration of hospital stay ranged from 4 to 7 days. We recommend this technique for treatment of distal amputation close to the proximal nail fold, in young individuals.