Thumb reconstruction by the wrap-around method

Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1985 May:(195):97-103.

Abstract

Reconstruction of a thumb amputated distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint can be accomplished by the "wrap-around" procedure. The operative procedure calls for an iliac crest graft to replace the bone of the amputated thumb. A flap from the great toe with innervation and circulation intact, including the toenail as well as sensory nerve, is wrapped around an iliac crest graft in a single-stage reconstruction of the thumb. This procedure allows a nice aesthetic result; the nail is transferred, sensibility is restored to the amputated thumb through the transferred neurovascularly intact flap, and the procedure is done at a single sitting. Results to date have been excellent in ten patients.

MeSH terms

  • Amputation, Traumatic / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Ilium / transplantation
  • Nails / transplantation
  • Skin Transplantation
  • Surgery, Plastic / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Thumb / injuries*
  • Thumb / surgery
  • Toes / surgery