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The reverse dorsal metacarpal flap: experience with 153 cases
1Department of Hand Surgery, First Clinical College, Ji Lin University, Chang Chun, PR China. lulaijin@hotmail.com
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|May 25, 2006
Summary
The reverse dorsal metacarpal flap is a reliable surgical technique for covering skin defects on fingers and stumps. This method demonstrated a high success rate in a 15-year study involving 153 patients.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Skin defects on fingers and stumps pose reconstructive challenges.
- The reverse dorsal metacarpal flap is a potential solution for such defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and reliability of the reverse dorsal metacarpal flap for skin defect coverage on fingers and stumps.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 153 cases using reverse dorsal metacarpal flaps over 15 years.
- Indications included acute and chronic skin defects on the second to fifth fingers or stumps.
- Flap coverage extended from the finger base to the distal interphalangeal joint.
Main Results:
- 143 out of 153 cases (93.5%) survived uneventfully.
- 8 cases (6.5%) experienced postoperative venous congestion leading to epidermal necrosis.
- The flap provided reliable coverage for defects in the specified areas.
Conclusions:
- The reverse dorsal metacarpal flap is a dependable and effective reconstructive option.
- It offers excellent coverage for skin defects of the fingers and stumps.
- While generally reliable, potential complications like venous congestion should be monitored.