title: Reconstruction of the thumb.
abstract: Based on 25 years of experience (1960-1984) with 188 cases, six approaches to thumb reconstruction are categorized as follows: pollicization using the index finger; pollicization using a finger stump; free transplant of a toe to reconstruct the thumb; reconstruction of the thumb by bone grafting and free flap transfer from the great toe with the nail; reconstruction of the thumb by turning up the skin over the dorsum of the stump and lengthening with bone grafting, and reconstruction of the thumb with bone grafting and tubular skin grafting. A well-reconstructed thumb should be in proper position with good stability, have good sensation, be of proper length, and have a satisfactory aesthetic appearance. Proper selection of patients, based on the level of thumb loss, condition of other fingers, and age, occupation, and activities of the patient, is a key to successful reconstruction of the thumb. Care must be taken to avoid excessive interference with the original function of the donor site.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016025:Bone Transplantation; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D005385:Fingers / Q000637:transplantation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013933:Thumb / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D014034:Toes / Q000637:transplantation