Thumb Reconstruction Using a Modified Masquelet Technique Following Crush Injury: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Hand surgery
• Trauma reconstruction

Background:

• Traumatic crush injuries of the thumb often lead to poor functional outcomes.
• Reconstruction options for thumb defects vary based on surgical expertise.
• The Masquelet technique is established for long bone defects but less reported for thumb reconstruction, particularly in Asia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a modified Masquelet two-stage technique for reconstructing a traumatic thumb crush injury.
• To evaluate the functional outcome and aesthetic appearance following this reconstruction method.

Main Methods:

• A case of right thumb crush injury was treated.
• The bony defect was initially managed with an antibiotic spacer.
• Subsequent reconstruction involved a tricortical iliac graft, adapting the Masquelet technique.

Main Results:

• The modified Masquelet technique provided a satisfactory functional outcome for the thumb.
• The hand appearance was also improved post-reconstruction.
• This two-stage approach proved to be a versatile tool for thumb defect management.

Conclusions:

• The modified Masquelet two-stage technique is effective for managing complex thumb crush injuries with bony defects.
• This method offers a viable option for restoring both function and aesthetics in the hand.
• Further case reports, especially from the Asian region, could expand understanding of this technique's application in thumb reconstruction.