Thumb Reconstruction Using Transfer of the Ring Finger Without Vascular Anastomosis.

PURPOSE: This study describes the results of the ring finger transfer technique for thumb reconstruction.

METHODS

Five fingers of 4 patients aged 23-57 years who presented to our clinic with an amputated thumb between 2017 and 2019 were included in this study. The results were assessed using Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, Hand (DASH) scoring. Active range of motion, grip and pinch strengths, Kapandji scores, and static 2-point discrimination were measured.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients (3 men, 1 woman) was 37 years (23-57 years). The level of amputation was the proximal phalanx in 3 digits and metacarpal in 2 digits. The average procedure time of was 89 ± 12 minutes. The average follow-up duration was 13 months (12-16 months). There was no total or partial digit necrosis in any patient. The mean preoperative shortened DASH score was 52.5 ± 6.7, and the mean postoperative score was 5.3 ± 6.5. The mean preoperative DASH Work Module score was 81.2 ± 18.8 and the mean postoperative score was 13.8 ± 7.5. Two-point discrimination was normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Transfer of the ring finger to reconstruct the amputated thumb is an alternative reconstruction method for patients who do not accept toe-to-thumb and pollicization techniques.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.