Hand reconstruction for multiple amputations by double microsurgical toe transplantation

Double microvascular toe transplant procedures were used to restore function in 16 mutilated hands. In eight hands, both opposing surfaces were reconstructed with the great toe or second toe used for the thumb and the contralateral second toe for the ulnar side of the hand. In eight hands in which the thumb was still present, two fingers were reconstructed with a second toe from each foot. All 33 transplanted toes survived. In all patients, hand function was substantially improved, with an average of 9.15 pounds of pinch strength between the transplanted opposing digits or the transplanted digit and a normal thumb. Adequate sensibility was restored. The two transplant procedures were done sequentially in six patients, while the two transplantations were performed simultaneously in 10 patients. Simultaneous reconstruction proved time- and cost-effective.