Contralateral transplantation of a finger for restoration of thumb function

Elective cross-hand transfer with thumb transposition: case report

An elective case of cross-transfer of the right hand to the left distal forearm stump is reported in a long-standing left radial-carpal amputee who developed a contralateral cerebrovascular accident with severe right-sided spasticity. The thumb column of the right hand was transposed to the ulnar side of the hand as a free flap to improve the appearance of the transferred hand, the tendons were reciprocally repaired, the nerves were connected to permit correct cortical sensory reorientation, and a modified Sauvé-Kapandji procedure was performed to allow for forearm rotation. The functional and cosmetic result was satisfactory for the patient, allowing him to regain independence in activities of daily living.

Microvascular hand surgery-transplants and replants-over the past 25 years

Two hundred eighty articles related to microvascular transplants and replants published in The Journal of Hand Surgery over the past 25 years were reviewed. Every facet of microsurgery was covered. One hundred seventy-one articles are referenced and discussed under the following major categories: microvascular transplants, replants, nerve grafts, vein grafts, cold intolerance, vasospasm, monitoring, immediate reconstruction, and historical. Contributions were received from 37 countries and 175 authors or groups of authors.