Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 22, 2025
12:01
The Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Fascia Flap for Nerve Reconstruction in Rabbits
Published on: June 13, 2025
259
Distal finger reconstruction technique combining a distally-based finger flap and a partial toe flap
Yuichi Hirase1, Yuri Kanno1, Arisa Okubo1
1Department of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Yotsuya Medical Cube, Tokyo, Japan.
Microsurgery
|November 11, 2022
Summary
This study introduces a minimally invasive technique for distal finger reconstruction using a partial toe flap. The method successfully restores aesthetics while preserving the toe's weight-bearing function, avoiding donor site complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Microsurgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Aesthetic reconstruction of distal finger amputations often involves partial toe transfer, risking damage to the toe's weight-bearing area.
- Existing methods can lead to donor site morbidity, impacting patient function and appearance.
Observation:
- A novel technique combines a distally based finger flap with a partial great toe flap for distal finger reconstruction.
- This approach was applied to 31 amputated fingertips in 30 patients between 2010 and 2020.
- The weight-bearing region of the great toe remained intact in all cases.
Findings:
- The combined flap technique resulted in successful aesthetic restoration of the distal finger in most patients.
- Two elderly smokers experienced flap necrosis; however, all patients maintained intact great toe weight-bearing regions.
- Donor sites healed well, with some requiring only spontaneous epithelization.
Implications:
- This minimally invasive technique effectively reconstructs distal fingers while preventing secondary donor site issues.
- It offers a valuable alternative for distal finger reconstruction, prioritizing both aesthetic outcomes and donor site preservation.
- Further research may explore long-term outcomes and applicability in diverse patient populations.
