[Second toe transplantation in loss of a long finger. Indications--planning--technique]

Transplantation of the second toe is a routinely employed method in reconstructive hand surgery. Most often it is used for thumb or midhand amputations. Following partial amputations of digits distal to the MP-joints, toe transplantations are less frequently employed. However, function as well as cosmesis of the hand after partial amputation of digits can considerably be improved by toe transplantation. The length of the reconstructed finger is a most important aspect of operative planning which has influence on operative technique as well as functional and aesthetic results. A smooth junction at the base of the transplanted toe should be maintained. This can be achieved by adequate soft-tissue reduction and exclusion of the metatarsophalangeal joint. Anastomoses of the subcutaneous venous and plantar as well as dorsal arterial vascular systems are recommended.