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Case Reports: Thumb Reconstruction Using Amputated Fingers

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Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

Abstract

Reconstruction of an irreparably amputated thumb in multiple digit amputations using amputated fingers can considerably improve hand function and allows creation of a newly transplanted thumb with acceptable cosmetic and functional attributes. However, the surgery is challenging and rarely reported. We report six cases using this procedure in patients with crushed thumbs unsuitable for replantation. In four of the patients, the remnant of the index finger was replanted on the thumb stump and in another two patients, an amputated middle finger and ring finger were used. The patients had a minimum followup of 12 months (mean, 18 months; range, 12–45 months). All newly transplanted thumbs survived resulting in the patients having satisfactory postoperative hand function and appearance.

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Acknowledgments

We extend appreciation to Christine Cavanna at the University of Regensburg Medical Center for careful editing of this manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Institute of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Central University Hospital 108, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Nguyen T. Hoang MD

  2. HNO–Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar der TUM, Ismaningerstr 22, 81675, Munich, Germany

    Nguyen T. Hoang MD

  3. ENT Department, University Hospital “rechts der Isar,” Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany

    R. Staudenmaier MD

  4. Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital “rechts der Isar,” Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany

    C. Hoehnke MD

Authors
  1. Nguyen T. Hoang MD
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  2. R. Staudenmaier MD
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  3. C. Hoehnke MD
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Nguyen T. Hoang MD.

Additional information

The first author thanks the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Germany (AvH-Foundation) for help in financing his research scholarship at the University Hospital “rechts der Isar” in Munich.

Each author certifies that his or her institution has approved the reporting of this case report, that all investigations were conducted in conformity with ethical principles of research, and that informed consent for participation in the study was obtained.

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Hoang, N.T., Staudenmaier, R. & Hoehnke, C. Case Reports: Thumb Reconstruction Using Amputated Fingers. Clin Orthop Relat Res 466, 1996–2001 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11999-008-0227-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11999-008-0227-2

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