Two flaps to resurface the basal flexion-crease of the finger area

Two flaps are described which have been designed to resurface the skin around the basal flexion crease of the fingers. Their most common use is on the ulnar side of the hand but any finger can be resurfaced. Both flaps are 1 cm in width so the donor sites can be repaired directly without the use of skin grafts. Mobilisation of the fingers is therefore permissible within 24 hours and thus postoperative stiffness avoided. The one-stage cross-finger flap is of particular value in resurfacing and preventing the recurrence of Dupuytren's in the M.P. joint area. The palmar transposition flap based on the inter-digital cleft is useful for the release of volar contractures and resurfacing localised full thickness burns. They are quick to raise and very reliable, providing their nutrient vessel is retained. The donor site distortion is minimal. We have had no flap loss and no limitation of flexion.