From pedicled transfer to microvascular anastomosis: a historical exploration of toe transfer in digital reconstruction
10.3760/cma.j.cn441206-20250410-00082
- VernacularTitle:从带蒂移位到显微血管吻合——足趾移植再造手指历史考证
- Author:
Liqiang GU
1
Author Information
1. 《中华显微外科杂志》编辑部，广州 510062
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Toe transfer;
Reconstruction;
Digit;
Microsurgery;
Microvascular anastomosis;
History of microsurgery
- From:
Chinese Journal of Microsurgery
2025;48(3):255-260
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
As early as in 1900, Nicoladoni performed a staged pedicled toe transfer for thumb reconstruction. In 1966, Yang Dongyue achieved the first successful single-staged thumb reconstruction using free second toe transfer through microvascular anastomosis. In the same year, Buncke reported a successful hallux-to-hand transfer utilising the microvascular anastomosis on the Rhesus monkey. Cobbett successfully performed the first free hallux transfer for thumb reconstruction in human in 1968. Having been invited by the Chinese Medical Association, North American Replantation Mission visited to China in 1973 and then the Chinese technique of free second toe transfer for reconstruction of thumb gained recognition by the international community. In years of 1978 and 1980, Morrison introduced the wrap-around flap technique. In 1980, Foucher reported the twisted-toe technique. In 1979, Yu Zhongjia reported a "reconstructed hand" by transfer of bilateral free second toes to the forearm stump. Further in 1981, he achieved simultaneous transfer of 5 toes for a total hand reconstruction. In 1982, the hand reconstruction technique was internationally recognised and referred as the "Chinese Hand". In 1985, the "Technique for reconstruction after hand loss or complete loss of total digits" was awarded the First Prize of National Invention in China.
