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Donor-Site Morbidity after Partial Second Toe Pulp Free Flap for Fingertip Reconstruction
Hyung Su Kim1, Dong Chul Lee1, Jin Soo Kim1
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Gwangmyeong Sungae General Hospital, Gwangmyeong, Korea.
Archives of Plastic Surgery
|February 6, 2016
Summary
Partial second toe pulp free flaps show low wound complication rates and acceptable long-term outcomes, making donor-site morbidity manageable for patients. This research aids in informed consent discussions regarding flap procedures.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Assessing donor-site morbidity is crucial for free flap procedures.
- Partial second toe pulp free flaps are utilized for fingertip reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize donor-site wound management and long-term outcomes of partial second toe pulp free flaps.
- To evaluate complications and patient satisfaction after this reconstructive procedure.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 246 partial second toe pulp free flap cases.
- Analysis of early wound complications (infection, necrosis, dehiscence, hematoma).
- Long-term follow-up via questionnaire for pain and appearance in 54 patients.
Main Results:
- A 5.3% early wound complication rate (dehiscence, hematoma).
- 28% of patients reported persistent donor-site pain at 32.4 months, with low intensity and no impact on daily activities.
- Most patients reported satisfactory donor-site appearance.
Conclusions:
- Partial second toe pulp free flaps demonstrate low wound complication rates.
- Favorable long-term outcomes and acceptable donor-site morbidity support flap utility.
- Findings are valuable for patient counseling and informed consent regarding donor-site issues.
