Microsurgical Second Toe-Metatarsal Bone Transfer for Reconstructing Congenital Radial Deficiency with Hypoplastic Thumb

This study describes a consecutive series of 11 children who received a microsurgical second toe-metatarsal bone transfer for reconstructing a hypoplastic thumb associated with radial club hand, between 1996 and 2000. The parents refused pollicization in all cases for aesthetic and cultural reasons. Surgery was intended to improve hand function and cosmetic appearance. The average patient age was 3 years, and the average follow-up period was 4 years. Average surgery time for the second toe-metatarsal bone transplantation was 8 hr. The primary success rate was 90.9 percent, with one patient requiring repeat surgery owing to venous occlusion. The surgical outcomes reveal a normal growth of the transferred toe, an acceptable range of motion, and satisfactory recovery of sensation. All children achieved both small and large grasp functions. The parents were satisfied with the reconstruction procedures. Based on the preliminary results, second toe-metatarsal bone transfer appears an acceptable alternative for reconstructing radial deficiency with hypoplastic thumb.