[A comparative study of metacarpal resection and translocation after amputation of the middle finger]

The authors studied 43 patients having sustained an amputation of one middle finger treated either by simple ray resection or translocation. The index-middle translocation was followed by more minor postoperative complications compared to all other techniques. A global score, taking into account daily activities, cosmetic result lack of mobility, residual pain, decreased strength, time off work, and return to work gave 131 points for simple third ray resection compare to index middle translocation (-252 points). Surprisingly, reduction of hand span on X ray study was minimal but strength was not correlated and translocation gave better strength, and therefore appears to be more appropriate for manual workers. For ring amputation, the score was definitely better for Leviet translocation with intracarpal osteotomy (143 points versus -36 for simple ray resection). However, the only drawback is more frequent (but minor) residual pain.