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Updated: May 28, 2026

Vascularized Composite Hand Allograft Procurement and Preparation for Distal and Proximal Forearm Allotransplantation: A Stepwise Approach
Published on: May 23, 2025
Small joint reconstruction of the hand
Derek L Masden1, Matthew L Iorio, James P Higgins
1The Curtis National Hand Center, Union Memorial Hospital, 3333 North Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
Salvage reconstructive procedures address severe hand joint problems when other treatments fail. This review covers options for complex fractures and arthritis, focusing on hand joint anatomy and risks.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Small hand joints are crucial for function; pain, stiffness, and instability cause significant disability.
- Complex fractures and severe arthritis often necessitate salvage procedures when initial treatments fail.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review reconstructive options for salvage procedures in the small joints of the hand.
- To examine the anatomy, challenges, and risk-benefit profiles of these salvage techniques.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of salvage reconstructive procedures for small hand joints.
- Analysis of pertinent anatomy, clinical challenges, and risk-benefit profiles.
Main Results:
- Various reconstructive options exist for complex hand joint salvage.
- Each option presents unique anatomical considerations, clinical challenges, and risk-benefit profiles.
Conclusions:
- Salvage reconstructive procedures are vital for nonreconstructable hand joint issues.
- Understanding the specific anatomy and risks is key to successful hand joint salvage surgery.
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