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.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 26, 2021
Accepted:
June 9,
2021
Received:
November 10,
2019
Footnotes
No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved.
