Aesthetic Reconstruction of Fingertip Defect Using Second Toe Pulp Free Flap

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Hand Surgery

Background:

• Fingertip injuries are increasingly prevalent, necessitating reconstructive methods that address both function and aesthetics.
• The second toe pulp-free flap offers a promising solution due to its anatomical similarities to fingertips.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present clinical experience and surgical techniques for fingertip defect reconstruction using second toe pulp-free flaps.

Main Methods:

• 13 second toe pulp-free flaps were used for fingertip reconstruction between April 2022 and May 2023.
• Flaps were harvested with a teardrop from the ipsilateral side after debridement of fingertip defects.
• Functional and aesthetic outcomes were assessed postoperatively.

Main Results:

• All 13 flaps survived completely with no partial necrosis.
• Patients experienced no functional impairments, with excellent recovery of sensation (average 2-point discrimination 3.7 mm).
• High patient satisfaction was noted, with low average Quick Dash (3.4) and Vancouver Scar Scale (1.5) scores.

Conclusions:

• The second toe pulp-free flap is an optimal choice for fingertip defect reconstruction.
• This method yields excellent functional and cosmetic results, improving quality of life for patients.
• The procedure is reliable and associated with minimal complications.