Nonvascularized toe phalangeal transfer and distraction lengthening for symbrachydactyly

J Hand Surg Am. 2010 Apr;35(4):652-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.01.011.

Abstract

Symbrachydactyly describes a spectrum of congenital hand differences consisting of digital loss resulting in fused short fingers. As the principles for distraction lengthening have evolved, the technique of nonvascularized toe phalangeal transfer to the hand with shortened digits has provided patients with improved outcomes. Nonvascularized toe phalanx to hand transplant with distraction lengthening restores functional length to a skeletally deficient, poorly functioning hand while maintaining an overlying layer of vascular and sensate tissue. The primary goal is improvement of digital length to enhance mechanical advantage and prehension. We describe the technique of nonvascularized toe phalangeal transfer and distraction lengthening for symbrachydactyly, including the following steps: nonvascularized proximal toe phalanx harvest, toe phalanx transfer to hand, pin placement, osteotomy, and closure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bone Nails
  • Fingers / abnormalities*
  • Fingers / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Osteogenesis, Distraction / methods*
  • Osteotomy / methods
  • Syndactyly / surgery*
  • Toe Phalanges / blood supply
  • Toe Phalanges / transplantation*