A modified second toe nail-skin flap for refined reconstruction of the distal index finger defect

The defect of the distal index finger may cause tissue necrosis, osteomyelitis, even dysfunction, disability in hand, and psychological problems. This study aimed to present our experiences using a modified second toe nail-skin flap to repair and reconstruct the distal index finger defect.

From February 2018 to April 2022,48 patients with the distal index finger defects received the modified second toe nail-skin flap to reconstruct the defect. Among them, 35 males and 13 females, with a mean age of 39.4 years (ranged, 11∼48 years) and irregular wound, and exposed or damaged tendons, nerves, or bones. The length of the bone defect was 0.3∼1.4 cm and the mean dimension of the soft tissue defect was 0.7 × 2.1 cm (ranged,0.4 × 1.5∼1.0 × 2.5 cm). All the flaps were individually designed according to the defect condition. Combined pedicled first dorsal metatarsal artery flap and cosmetic sutures was used for repair in all donor areas. We regularly followed up all patients and completed the results of some standardized assessment based on hand function and aesthetic scores.

48 modified second toe nail-skin flaps survived completely. The fingers were available for a mean follow-up of 10.5 months (ranged, 6∼13 months) without serious complications, such as necrosis of distal index finger, deformity, nonunion, muscle spasms of the index finger, paronychia, pain, abnormal temperature and touch sensation. The functional and aesthetic results of all the flaps were satisfactory.

The modified second toe nail-skin flap is one of the preferred ways to reconstruct distal index finger defect. This approach provides cosmetic coverage, functional recovery, allows for faster wound healing and reduced tendon adhesion, and lessens damage to the donor area, and does not affect the functions of foot.