Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 10, 2026
Engineered Vascularized Muscle Flap
Published on: January 11, 2016
[V-y flap for restoration of the fingertip]
Isabella Mehling1, Martin H Hessmann, Alexander Hofmann
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Unfallchirurgie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55101 Mainz. mehling@unfall.klinik.uni-mainz.de
Objective:
Restoration of the fingertip with a neurovascular V-Y flap.
Indications:
Transverse or oblique defects of the fingertip, also with exposed bone of the distal phalanx.
Contraindications:
Larger defects of the phalanx over the proximal interphalangeal joint. Crush injury of the finger. Preexisting lesions of the fingertip. Circulatory disorder. Contamination. Infection of the finger.
Surgical Technique:
A single volar (Tranquilli-Leali, Atasoy) or a bilateral V-Y flap (Geissendörfer, Kutler) is used for restoration of the fingertip. The incision is V-shaped and will be converted to a Y, as the flap is advanced. The subcutaneous tissue of the flap contains neurovascular structures, and provides sensibility and padding of the fingertip. A distal advancement of the flap up to 10 mm is possible with this technique.
Postoperative Management:
Immobilization in a two-finger splint for 1 week.
Results:
Good functional results.
