Free Flaps for Soft Tissue Reconstruction of Digits

Soft tissue reconstruction of the digit is challenging for hand surgeons because it must satisfy both functional and aesthetic requirements. A wide variety of treatment options exist. A free flap can be an alternative solution in some clinical situations. This article has 2 purposes. First, it discusses various considerations for free-flap usage for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the digits and the available options. Second, it provides more detailed information regarding the 3 commonly used free flaps, namely, the partial toe pulp flap, radial artery superficial palmar branch flap, and arterialized venous flap.