Amputation


The contribution of each finger to overall hand function is shown in this graph. The thumb is the most important digit. Its total loss constitutes a 40% loss of hand function.

The effect of loss of part of a finger is judged according to the level of amputation.

The functional loss to the whole hand following the amputation of a middle finger through the PIPJ is therefore:

20% x 80% = 16%


Hand Surgery Home-Page Information sheets
Operative series index British Society for Surgery of the Hand