Great toe-to-thumb microvascular transplantation after traumatic amputation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Microsurgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• The thumb is crucial for hand function; its loss significantly impairs dexterity.
• Great toe amputation, while aesthetically unappealing, results in minimal functional deficit.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of great toe-to-thumb transplantation for thumb reconstruction.
• To detail the surgical technique and management protocols for this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Composite tissue transplantation involving microvascular great toe transfer to the thumb position.
• Preoperative and postoperative management strategies.
• Functional assessment of the reconstructed thumb and donor foot.

Main Results:

• Successful restoration of both aesthetic and functional aspects of the hand.
• Minimal functional impairment observed at the donor foot site.
• Forty years of experience validate the procedure's success.

Conclusions:

• Great toe-to-thumb microvascular transplantation is the established gold standard for reconstructing traumatic thumb amputations.
• The procedure offers excellent functional restoration with acceptable donor site morbidity.