EMERGENCY RECONSTRUCTION OF THUMB OR FINGER / 解放军医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Since 1970, 13 cases of reconstruction thumb and finger utilizing the second toe were performed. 13 out of 14 reconstructed digits survied with no complication. All wounds healed by primary intention. Emergency reconstruction has the following merits: it is completed in one stage, hence less suffering and economic loss to the patients;it promises early rehabilitation, early return to work and better functional results, as compared with delayed operation. Traumatic amputation of the thumb at or near the metacarpo-phalangeal joint with the transected part so badly injured that replantation is no longer fet-sible, and severe crushing injury of the thumb or all fingers are indicated for emergency reconstruction. Patient's age, occupation, desire for operation and general health should be considered individually before operation. The method of dissecting the second toe with the preservation of vasculization pattern of dorsalis pedis artery-first plantar metatarsal artery should be adopted in case the anatomic pattern of dorsal metatarsal artery belongs to Gilbert type Ⅲ.