Vascularized toe-to-finger joint transplantation

Abstract

Since 1983, we have transplanted 11 free vascularized joints in 8 men and 3 women, mean age 32 years. The causes of joint involvement were trauma in 9 cases and infection in 2. One MP and 10 PIP joints of the second toe were transplanted to 3 MP and 8 PIP joints of the fingers. After a mean postoperative follow-up period of 4 years, the mean postoperative range of motion was 31° compared with 16° preoperatively. Radiographs showed destruction of 4 PIP joints, probably caused by vascular failure in 2 joints and infection in 2. In spite of no evidence of arthrosis, some of the joints had gradually undergone a loss of extension. Although there are some problems that should be overcome, we advocate a free vascularized toe-joint transplantation for severe finger-joint destruction without extensive surrounding soft-tissue damage.