Abstract
The "kite-flap" is a cutaneous island flap containing a triple pedicle. It is harvested from the dorsum of the index and is intended to cover skin-loss on the thumb. The purpose of our study was to evaluate 12 "kite-flaps" performed over the course of 11 years. The skin defects were on the dorsum of the distal phalanx of the thumb in 3 cases, on the dorsum of both the distal and proximal phalanges in 4 cases and on the volar aspect of the thumb in 5 cases. The associated lesions consisted of combined bone and skin in one case treated by bone graft with external fixation, and one case of septic arthritis of the interphalangeal joint treated by arthrodesis. The results of our series are very good after an average of 2 years follow-up. We have however had 4 cases of cold intolerance, 2 cases of superficial sepsis and one case of shrinkage of the first commissure. It appears that the "kite-flap" is the best solution for cover of simple or complex skin loss of the thumb. Its technical performance is easy, and it gives durable, sensate and stable skin cover.
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