Clinical application of lateral flaps pedicled with fingertip vascular network in repairing fingertip defects

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical effects of lateral fingertip flaps pedicled with fingertip vascular network in repairing fingertip defects. Methods From August 2013 to December 2015, 32 cases (32 fingers) of Yamano zone type I fingertip defects were repaired using lateral fingertip flaps pedicled with fingertip vascular network. The soft tissue defects ranged in size from 1.5 cm×٢.0 cm to 2.5 cm×٢.٥ cm, all of which had bone exposure or partial defect of the fingertip. The shape, sweating, two-point discrimination, and motor function of the affected finger were regularly followed after operation. Results All the 32 flaps survived. During a follow-up period of 1.0-1.5 years, the shape, sweating, two-point discrimination, and motor function of the affected finger recovered well. Conclusion Lateral fingertip flaps pedicled with fingertip vascular network is an ideal method for repair of fingertip defects because of their small trauma, simple operation, and good postoperative and long-term results. Key words: Fingertip defect injury; Surgical flaps; Local transfer flaps; Digital artery arch