Losing a thumb can have a major impact on daily functioning. In a rare reconstructive procedure, a toe from the foot is used to replace the missing thumb, restoring grip strength and dexterity. Blooming's plastic surgeons are experienced in complex reconstructive surgeries and explain how this remarkable operation works, what the recovery involves, and what results patients can realistically expect. This is an example of how modern plastic surgery can dramatically improve quality of life.
Plastic and hand surgeons Mick Kreulen, Jan van Loon and Robert de Wijn, working at Blooming and at the Rode Kruis Ziekenhuis in Beverwijk, successfully performed a very special operation in October. They transformed Jan Frantsen's big toe into a thumb, after Jan lost his thumb in an industrial accident.
The operation is extremely rare and complex; it does not happen often that someone loses a thumb and receives a toe in its place. Yet Jan was willing to sacrifice his toe in order to one day be able to ride a motorcycle and pursue photography again, as these hobbies would be impossible without a thumb. According to Robert de Wijn, the procedure is so complex because, in addition to the thumb needing to survive, all the nerves and tendons must also be connected correctly. If this is not done properly, the thumb will not be functional. The operation lasted no fewer than eleven hours and was a success!
"You could see it as the holy grail of hand surgery, and we managed to do it here," said De Wijn.