Digital Reconstruction with Free Pulp Transfer from the Great Toe.

Cho, Jin Whan; Bang, Yoo Hyun

Original Article

Journal of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons 1999;26(4):714-719.
Published online July 1, 1999.

Digital Reconstruction with Free Pulp Transfer from the Great Toe.

Abstract

The authors report our experience of digital pulp reconstruction by free great toe pulp transfer. Twelve patients were treated with lateral great toe hemipulp. Twelve cases of digital pulp defect were reviewed, including 2 thumbs and 10 indices. There were 11 primary cases and 1 case of secondary reconstruction. We noted no necrosis and 5 patients suffered from cold intolerance. The flap sensibility, according to ASSH criteria, was excellent in 1 case, good in 10 cases, fair in 1 case and poor in no cases. The range of the stationary two-point discrimination test was between 4 and 15mm (mean S2-PD value; 7.2mm). The subjective evaluation found in 11 patients was satisfactory and dissatisfactory in 1. Performing this procedure during the acute phase may improve the management of trauma by reducing the time needed for cicatrisation and the length of disability. Furthermore, the principal advantages of this procedure are minimal donor site morbidity, as well as excellent functional and cosmetic gain.