Nail bed transplantation nourished by fascial flap pedicled with proper digital vessels for repair of nail defects

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical effects of nail bed transplantation combined with fascial flap pedicled with proper digital vessels in the treatment of nail defects. Methods From January 2012 to March 2016, 25 cases (27 fingers) of nail bed defects accompanied with phalangette periosteum defects were treated by nail bed transplantation combined with fascial flap pedicled with proper digital vessels. Results Postoperatively transplanted nail bed in 27 fingers survived. The patients were follow-up for 6 to 24 months with an average of 12.5 months. The nail appearance was satisfactory. According to the evaluation method issued by Lv Guixin et al, the curative effect of nail bed survival and nail shape was rated as excellent in 16 fingers, good in 9 fingers and poor in 2 fingers with the excellent and good rate being 92.6%. Conclusion The application of nail bed transplantation combined with fascial flap pedicled with proper digital vessels in the treatment of nail defects accompanied with phalangette periosteum defects can maximally restore the appearance and function of the nails. The postoperative clinical effects are satisfactory. Key words: Nails; Transplantation; Fascial flap; Repair