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Summary
Reimplanting a great toe as a thumb results in good foot function for daily activities. Most patients reported 85% normal foot function, with no significant pain or long-term issues.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Microsurgery
- Reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Great toe reimplantation is a reconstructive option for thumb loss.
- Understanding the functional impact on the foot is crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the functional outcomes and radiographic changes in the foot after great toe reimplantation for thumb creation.
Main Methods:
- Study included four patients who underwent great toe disarticulation at the metatarsophalangeal joint.
- Follow-up ranged from 29 to 62 months.
- Functional assessment included patient-reported outcomes and Harris mat analysis; radiographic evaluation assessed metatarsophalangeal joint changes.
Main Results:
- Patients reported approximately 85% of normal foot function with no significant metatarsalgia.
- Radiographs showed sesamoid retraction and an average 8-degree varus drift of the second metatarsophalangeal joint.
- Weightbearing shifted to the second and third metatarsal heads.
Conclusions:
- Great toe reimplantation for thumb creation does not significantly impair everyday foot function.
- While radiographic changes occur, they do not appear to cause significant functional deficits in daily life.