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Engineered Vascularized Muscle Flap
Published on: January 11, 2016
Microvascular free on-top plasty in multidigital amputations
1Reconstructive Microsurgery, Clínica Cavadas, Po Facultades 4, 46021 Valencia, Spain. pcavadas@telefonica.net
Summary
Reconstructing a three-fingered hand after severe finger amputations is possible. Microvascular on-top plasty successfully restored function and appearance in five patients without additional donor site morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Hand surgery
- Microsurgery
- Reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Bidigital amputations proximal to the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints significantly compromise hand function and aesthetics.
- Restoring form and function in such cases presents a surgical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of free microvascular on-top plasty for reconstructing hands with two-finger amputations proximal to the PIP joints.
- To assess improvements in hand function and cosmesis following the procedure.
Main Methods:
- A clinical series involving five male patients with amputations of two fingers proximal to the PIP joint.
- Surgical reconstruction using a local free composite flap, transferring one finger stump on top of the other.
- Microvascular anastomosis for flap survival.
Main Results:
- All five microvascular transfers were technically successful.
- The mean operative time was 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Patients reported positive subjective improvements in both hand function and cosmetic appearance.
Conclusions:
- Free microvascular on-top plasty is a reliable and straightforward surgical technique.
- This procedure effectively enhances cosmesis and function for hands with specific two-finger amputations.
- The technique avoids additional donor site morbidity, utilizing existing injured tissue.
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