ABSTRACT
79 cases (180 amputated fingers) underwent gradual distraction through phanlanges. The bone elongation obtained varied from 1 to 3.2 cm, with an average of 2.2 cm. Finger stumps were examined by measurement of 2 point discrimination (2PD) and sensative nerve conduction velocity as well as SO, both before and post lengthening. We confirmed that it was safe to distract the finger stump at a daily rate of 1 mm. Several fingers can be lengthened simultaneously using our device. The adjacent joint was also stretched other than compressed. Therefore, the lateral accessory ligament contraction and joint crush injury were avoided. The long-term length increase was maintained by subperiosteal osteotomy. Gradual finger lengthening is a simple, safe and effective method.