Correction of Long Standing Proximal Interphalangeal Flexion Contractures with Cross Finger Flaps and Vigorous Postoperative Exercises

Abstract

PurposeWe reviewed the results of cross finger flaps after surgical release and vigorous postoperative exercises for long-standing, severe flexion contractures of the Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) joints of fingers.Materials and MethodsIn 9 patients, all contracted tissue was sequentially released and the resultant skin defect was covered with a cross-finger flap. The cause of the contracture was contact burn in 4, skin graft in 3, and a previous operation in 2. The mean follow-up period was 41.2 months.ResultsThe mean flexion contracture/further flexion in the joints were improved from 73.4/87.8° to 8.4/95.4° at the last follow-up. A mean of 19.5° of extension was achieved with vigorous extension exercise after the operation. The mean gain in range of motion (ROM) was 79.4°. Near full ROM was achieved in 3 cases. There were no major complications.ConclusionsIn severe flexion contractures with scarring of the PIP joints of fingers, cross finger flaps after sufficient release and vigorous postoperative exercise seems to be a reasonable option to obtain satisfactory ROM of the joints.