Flaps
Application of modified digital artery island flap for repair of the middle and distal segment wounds of the same finger
Kai Yang, Yongjun Rui, Zhengfeng Lu, Quanrong Zhang, Yuzhou Liu, Shengzhi Zhang
Published 2018-12-10
Cite as Chin J Hand Surg, 2018, 34(6): 407-409. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.1005-054X.2018.06.003
Abstract
ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical outcomes of modified digital artery island flap pedicled with metaphysis branch of the middle phalanx for repair of the middle and distal segment wounds of the same finger with the second palmar anastomotic branch injury.
MethodsFrom August 2014 to March 2017, 11 cases of soft tissue defects with the second palmar anastomotic branch injury were treated with modified digital artery island flap pedicled with metaphysis branch of the middle phalanx. The dorsal digital nerve of the flap was sutured to the contralateral digital nerve to restore flap sensation. The donor site was covered with free skin graft.
ResultsAll the flaps and skin graft survived completely. All the patients were follow-up from 6 to18 months. The flaps had good appearance and supple texture. The two-point discrimination was 7 to 11 mm. The Cold Intolerance Severity Score (CISS) ranged from 5 to 39 with an average of 21. Ten fingers had mild cold intolerance, while 1 finger had moderate cold intolerance. According to the upper extremity function evaluation criteria issued by the Hand Surgery Society of the Chinese Medical Association, the results were rated as excellent in 8 cases, good in 2 cases, and fair in 1 case.
ConclusionThe application of modified digital artery island flap pedicled with metaphysis branch of the middle phalanx is a simple method with satisfactory sensory recovery and reliable blood supply for repair of the middle and distal segment wounds of the same finger with the second palmar anastomotic branch injury.
Key words:
Finger injuries; Surgical flaps; Treatment outcome; Proper digital artery
Contributor Information
Kai Yang
Department of Hand Surgery, Wuxi No. 9 People's Hospital, Jiangsu 214062, China
Yongjun Rui
Zhengfeng Lu
Quanrong Zhang
Yuzhou Liu
Shengzhi Zhang