Microanatomy study and clinical application of superficial palmar digital veins in fingertip replantation

Abstract

Objective To study the anatomy of superficial palmar digital veins in fingertip,and explore the clinical application of superficial palmar digital veins as venous drainage in fingertip replantation.Methods One hundred fingers were studied with three methods: microanatomy,sectional anatomy,and X-ray.According to microanatomical observation,thirteen fingers in 10 cases with fingertip amputations and dorsal veins defect were replanted by anastomosis of palmar digital veins to reconstruct the venous drainage of the amputated digits. Results ( 1 ) 1 to 3 tiny superficial palmar digital veins can be found at the level of the onychorrhiza.The average diameters of the superficial palmar digital veins were 0.2-0.5 mm.(2)In clinical practice,13 replanted fingers were survived.After 3-18 months following-up,the appearance and function were satisfactory. Conclusion The distribution of the palmar digital veins was in some pattern.Anastomosis of the superficial palmar digital veins can not only improve the success rate of the fingertip replantation,but also avoid the complications of the other venous drainage methods. Key words: Fingertip; Microanatomy; Superficial vein; Replantation