Clinical application of free dorsal foot skin flap with tendon of extensor digitorum for repair of compound tissue defects of the dorsum of hand

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical effects of free dorsal foot skin flap with tendon of extensor digitorum in the treatment of skin and tendon tissue defects of the dorsum of hand. Methods From May 2008 to December 2015, 12 patients with skin and tendon tissue defects of the dorsum of hand were repaired by free dorsal foot skin flap with 1 to 3 tendons of extensor digitorum. Of them 6 cases received emergency surgery, while others had secondary repair surgery after debridement and vacuum sealing drainage dressing (VSD). Results All 12 cases survived uneventfully. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 24 months. The appearance and texture of the flaps were good. The flexion and extension function of injured fingers recovered well. The two-point discrimination was 6 to 9 mm. There was little effect on the appearance and function of foot donor site. Conclusion Free dorsal foot skin flap with tendon of extensor digitorum is a good method to repair compound tissue defects of the dorsum of hand due to the vascular constancy of dorsal foot skin flap and the skin and tendon texture similarity between recipient and donor site. Key words: Hand injuries; Microsurgery; Tendon defect; Dorsal foot skin flap