Reconstruction of the metacarpophalangeal joint with autogenous metatarsal

Restoration of the articular surface of a damaged or lost metacarpal head is necessary for adequate function of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Although several salvage procedures have been described, none has been as satisfactory as the metatarsal transfer. This report describes the functional outcome of a patient who had a metatarsal transfer to replace the metacarpal involved by giant cell tumors. Follow-up 2 1/4 years after the transfer showed good maintanence of the joint space and excellent joint function.