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Bilateral hand reconstruction: report of three cases
Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery
|July 1, 1985
Summary
Reconstructing bilateral hand loss is now possible using toe-to-hand transplantation. This microsurgical technique transfers foot digits to create functional hands, offering hope for amputees.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Microsurgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Reconstructing a single lost hand via toe transplantation is established.
- Bilateral hand loss presents a significant reconstructive challenge.
Observation:
- A novel microsurgical technique for bilateral hand reconstruction is presented.
- This involves transferring foot digits (big toe, second/third rays) to the forearm stump.
- Bone grafts are used to reconstruct the thumb.
Findings:
- Three patients underwent bilateral hand reconstruction using this technique.
- Five of six reconstructed hands showed satisfactory function after one year.
- Complications included vascular thrombosis and flap necrosis in two cases.
Implications:
- This technique offers a viable solution for bilateral hand loss.
- Successful reconstructions demonstrate the potential for significant functional recovery.
- Further research may optimize techniques to minimize complications.