Reconstruction of multiple fingertip injuries with reverse flow homodigital flap

Abstract

AimHand trauma may lead to multiple fingertip defects, causing functional restrictions. We evaluated the use of reverse-flow homodigital flap reconstruction of the distal phalanx and pulp defects associated with multiple finger injuries. MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 11 male patients who presented at our emergency department (January 2011–March 2013) with multiple fingertip injuries and who were treated with a reverse-flow homodigital flap. Evaluations included age, sex, defect size, flap survival rate, complications, cold intolerance, two-point discrimination, range of motion (ROM), quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score, and return to work time. ResultsCompletely, 22 reverse-flow homodigital flaps were applied to at least two fingertip injuries at the distal phalanx. Ten flaps survived postoperatively. The exception was partial flap loss on one finger. The mean follow-up was 14.2 months. At the final follow-up, the mean static two-point discrimination value was 10.3mm. Mean ROMs of interphalangeal joints were 65.31° (distal) and 105.77° (proximal). Donor sites were covered with full-thickness skin grafts from the wrist or antecubital area. There were no complications related to the donor site and no development of cold intolerance in any finger. The mean quick DASH score was 4.12. All patients returned to work in an average of 8.3 weeks. ConclusionsThe reconstruction of multiple fingertip injuries with reverse-flow homodigital flaps is a safe, effective method that can be combined with other local finger flaps. These flaps can be applied to two consecutive fingers without reducing finger length or function.