A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Long-term effects of toe transfers on the donor feet
Authors: T. Kotkansalo, P. Elo, T. Luukkaala, S. K. Vilkki
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD
Publishing place: LONDON; 1 OLIVERS YARD, 55 CITY ROAD, LONDON EC1Y 1SP, ENGLAND
Publication year: 2014
Journal:: Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume)
Journal name in source: Journal of Hand Surgery-European Volume
Journal acronym: J.Hand Surg.-Eur.Vol.
Volume: 39
Issue: 9
First page : 966
Last page: 976
Number of pages: 11
ISSN: 1753-1934
eISSN: 2043-6289
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1753193413518702
The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term consequences to the donor site of microvascular transfer of one or two toes. This was achieved retrospectively by patient-reported, clinician-based and functional testing. Weight-bearing radiographs were taken of both feet. Seventy-four patients (80 feet, 84 transferred toes) participated in this study. After a median of 16 years follow-up, most patients reported no or only minor complaints concerning the donor site. Cold intolerance and pain during exertion were the most commonly reported complaints. According to the two functional scores used, 92% of patients reported no or minor complaint and 83% of patients received a good result at the donor feet. Maintaining first ray alignment and avoiding early postoperative complications predicted a better outcome. Even though donor site ramifications should be expected after microvascular transfer of toes, patient satisfaction remains high.