Salvage of amputated thumbs by temporary ectopic implantation.

Purpose: To determine the indications and benefits of ectopic implantation in the salvage of amputated thumb. Basic procedures: Two cases of avulsed amputated thumbs were temporarily ectopically implanted onto the forearm and foot, with microvascular anastomoses. When the stump condition allowed, and the soft-tissue defects were repaired, the ectopic implanted thumbs were replanted to their anatomic positions. Results: Both thumbs survived the temporary ectopic implantation and second-stage replantation. The length of the thumbs was maintained, and the thumbs regained their function in 16- and 10-week follow-ups. Conclusions: Temporary ectopic implantation of amputated parts provides an innovative procedure for the salvage of amputated thumbs under special circumstances. Although this procedure is very demanding, it does deserve special consideration in reconstructive microsurgery, since it offers the possibility to salvage amputated thumbs with extensive soft tissue loss of the hand, by preserving the anatomy and restoring the function of severely injured hands. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.