The application of the dorsal metacarpal perforator sliding flap for web-space reconstruction in congenital syndactyly

Abstract

To investigate the application of the dorsal metacarpal perforator sliding flap for web-space reconstruction in congenital syndactyly. According to the size and shape of skin defect at the web space after division operation of syndactyly, the corresponding intermetacarpal perforator sliding flap was designed. The edge of the flap was cut off, but its underlying tissue was not dissected. From May 2007 to November 2012, 28 web-spaces in 15 patients with syndactyly (10 male and 5 female) were reconstructed. All the 28 flaps survived completely. The flap size ranged from 3 cm x 2 cm to 1.5 cm x 1.0 cm. 14 cases with 26 flaps were followed up for 10-22 months (average, 14.5 month). The reconstructed web spaces had normal appearance and movement range. The 2-point discrimination distance was 9-13 mm (average, 11 mm). According to the Swanson Standard, 18 fingers were graded as excellent, 8 as good and 2 as fair (excellent and good, 92.6%, 26/28). Reconstruction of web-space in syndactyly with the dorsal metacarpal perforator flap has the advantages of easy handling, good cosmetic and functional results.