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In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Published on: June 8, 2013
Donor finger morbidity in cross-finger flaps
P Paterson1, O G Titley, J D Nancarrow
1West Midlands Regional Centre for Plastic Surgery, Wordsley Hospital, Stourbridge, UK.
Injury
|March 17, 2000
Summary
Cross-finger flap surgery for finger injuries leads to significant donor finger morbidity, including cold intolerance and joint stiffness. Skin graft reconstruction often results in poor cosmetic outcomes, highlighting the need for alternative reconstructive methods.
Area of Science:
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Cross-finger flaps are utilized for soft tissue reconstruction in finger injuries.
- Donor site morbidity is a critical consideration in reconstructive surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the donor finger morbidity following cross-finger flap procedures.
- To assess the long-term outcomes and complications associated with donor sites.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 16 patients undergoing cross-finger flap procedures.
- Median follow-up of 43 months to assess donor finger morbidity.
- Comparison of split-thickness versus full-thickness skin grafts for secondary defect reconstruction.
Main Results:
- High incidence of cold intolerance (10 patients) and joint stiffness (8 patients) in donor fingers.
- Reduced range of motion documented in 8 patients.
- Poor aesthetic outcomes (color match and contour deformity) in 8 cases following skin graft reconstruction.
Conclusions:
- Cross-finger flaps, while providing soft tissue cover, are associated with significant donor finger morbidity.
- Current skin graft techniques for secondary defects yield suboptimal cosmetic results.
- Further research into alternative reconstructive techniques is warranted to minimize donor site complications.
