Reconstruction of the thumb and digit by toe to hand transplantation

Abstract

Since the rapid development of microsurgery it is feasible to replant most severed thumbs and digits. In certain patients, however, the trauma is so severe that replantation cannot be performed, such as crush or burst injuries where the amputated part is badly smashed or broken into pieces. There are many methods used to reconstruct amputated thumbs or digits. In our hospital reconstruction of the thumb is accomplished by second toe transplantation, nail flap of the great toe transplantation and bone graft, and nail flap of the great toe and skeleton from the second toe transplantation. Reconstruction of fingers is undertaken through second toe transplantation and second and third toe transplantation. After total loss of the hand, double second toe transplant is used for reconstruction.