Free Vascularized Toe-Joint Transfer in Hand Reconstruction: A Series of 25 Patients

Abstract

Twenty-eight vascularized toe-joint transfers performed on 25 patients were reviewed. A number of different techniques were used: proximal interphalangeal joint or metacarpophalangeal joint reconstruction, one-stage double joint transfer, and interphalangeal thumb or trapezometacarpal joint replacement. Using these types of vascularized joint transfer allows one-stage composite transfer (including skin, bone, and extensor tendon) and provides rapid bone healing, potential growth in the young, good long-term cartilage preservation, normal lateral stability in pinch, and limited but useful range of motion (mainly at the proximal interphalangeal level).