Metacarpal-Like and Metacarpal Hand

Abstract

The metacarpal-like and metacarpal hand injuries are devastating conditions that render the hand nonfunctional. Although the metacarpal hand is well-studied, the metacarpal-like hand is never addressed. The authors, using the same principles as in the classification and treatment of metacarpal hand, propose an easy to follow treatment algorithm for metacarpal-like hand injury to guide the reconstructive surgeon. For both injuries, microsurgical toe-to-hand transplantation can restore an acceptable level of function if done properly. Meticulous planning is essential for the toe-to-hand surgery to achieve its prime goal of stable tripod pinch with insignificant morbidity at the donor sites.

Keywords: Combined second and third toe transfer; Metacarpal hand; Metacarpal-like hand; Second toe transfer; Toe-to-hand transfer; Trimmed great toe transfer; Tripod pinch; Whole great toe transfer.