Ligament Harvesting and Its Impact on Finger Function

Fracture extraction of ligaments

The ring finger and little finger were treated with a pin (self-paid steel pin), but there has been persistent suture material protruding that won't heal.
After the self-paid pin procedure, the fingers remained in a drooping position.
Subsequently, I underwent debridement to address the suture issue, but there was still no improvement in the drooping fingers, and I have already had two surgeries.
During the third surgery, a health insurance-covered pin was used on the little finger because there were no ligaments left.
A small segment of ligament was taken from my wrist and sutured into the little finger.
Will my wrist ligaments regenerate on their own? The doctor mentioned that they would grow back, but I feel that the surgical skills at his hospital are not very good.
Additionally, I only learned about the ligament harvesting after the surgery.
Will this have any long-term effects on my wrist? The doctor mentioned that the ligaments in the little finger were completely worn out.

Huai Zhen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/31

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics

Hello Mr.
Huai-Zhen, the most common sequelae of a hammer toe are stiffness in the joints and an inability to fully extend the toe.
Even after surgery or without surgery, it is still likely to have a bent angle.
Regarding the ligaments harvested, the palmaris longus muscle is most commonly used in the wrist, which does not have a significant impact on function.
You may want to consult with the surgeon who performed your operation.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2020/08/31

More Info

Ligament harvesting, particularly from the wrist to repair a finger, is a complex procedure that can have significant implications for both finger function and overall wrist stability. In your case, it sounds like you have undergone multiple surgeries to address issues with your little finger, including the use of pins and the harvesting of a ligament from your wrist.
Firstly, it's important to understand that ligaments are crucial for joint stability and function. They connect bones to other bones and help maintain the integrity of the joint. When a ligament is harvested, as in your case, it can lead to a reduction in stability in the area from which it was taken. The wrist is a complex joint with many ligaments that work together to provide stability and mobility. If a ligament is removed, there is a potential risk of decreased stability, which could lead to issues such as pain, reduced range of motion, or even the development of arthritis over time.

Regarding your concern about whether the wrist ligament will regenerate after harvesting, it is essential to note that ligaments do not regenerate in the same way that some other tissues do. While the body has a remarkable ability to heal, the harvested ligament will not grow back to its original state. However, surrounding tissues may adapt over time, and the body can sometimes compensate for the loss of a ligament. This compensation may not restore full function but can help maintain some level of stability.

The fact that your doctor mentioned that the ligament would "grow back" might have been a misunderstanding. What they may have meant is that the surrounding ligaments and tissues could strengthen and adapt to help stabilize the wrist after the harvesting. However, this process can vary significantly from person to person and depends on various factors, including age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

As for the implications of harvesting a ligament for your little finger, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns about your wrist's stability and function. If you experience pain, instability, or a significant decrease in function, it may be necessary to explore further interventions, such as physical therapy or even additional surgical options.

In terms of your little finger, if the ligament was indeed "worn away," this could indicate chronic instability or injury that may require ongoing management. Rehabilitation exercises focusing on strengthening the surrounding muscles and improving joint stability can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide a tailored program to help you regain function and strength in your hand.

In conclusion, while harvesting a ligament can provide a solution for finger function, it is essential to be aware of the potential impacts on wrist stability and function. Continuous monitoring and rehabilitation are crucial for optimizing outcomes. If you have concerns about the quality of care you received, seeking a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist may provide additional insights and options for your treatment.

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