Functional assessment of ray transfer for central digital loss

Nineteen patients who had ray transposition for central digital loss were evaluated retrospectively with regard to postoperative function and appearance. Pinch and grip recoveries were better in patients with small-to-ring finger transfers than in those with index-to-long finger transfers. Total average pinch recovery measured 83.3% of the nonoperated side. Total grip recovery was 80.2% of the nonoperated side. Average ranges of motion for all transferred digits were 77.6 degrees (metacarpophalangeal joint), 87.6 degrees (proximal interphalangeal joint), and 80.8 degrees (distal interphalangeal joint). Overall results judged by a five-component assessment scale were excellent.