The restoration of hand function in congenital absence of digits by transplantation of a toe - surgical aspects
Giele H.
The hand has several important functions. These not only include the commonly discussed functions of sensibility and touch, grip and pinch, but also functions in communication, emotional expression and even a sexual function. There are also important considerations about aesthetics and body image in those whose hands are disabled or deformed in any way. Restoration of as many of these functions as possible is the goal of hand surgeons and therapists. The priority of these functions depends to some degree on the patient and their aspirations, but generally speaking motor function supersedes sensation which takes priority over psychological and aesthetic issues. © 1999, The British Association of Hand Therapists. All rights reserved.