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Fingertip reconstruction by the reverse digital artery island flap
1Department of Surgery, Chung Shan Medical and Dental College Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi = Chinese Medical Journal; Free China Ed
|March 1, 1995
Summary
The reverse digital artery island flap effectively reconstructs fingertip injuries, preserving length and sensation. This method offers a single-field solution for various fingertip defects with excellent patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Hand surgery
- Plastic surgery
- Reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Fingertip injuries are highly prevalent hand trauma.
- Ideal reconstruction aims to restore tissue, length, joint motion, and sensation.
- Existing reconstructive methods have associated disadvantages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the reverse digital artery island flap for fingertip reconstruction.
- To assess the outcomes of this flap in patients with fingertip injuries.
Main Methods:
- An island skin flap based on the ipsilateral digital artery was elevated from the proximal phalanx.
- Six male patients with fingertip injuries underwent reconstruction using this flap.
- Follow-up averaged 8.5 months.
Main Results:
- All six flaps survived without vascular or neurological compromise.
- No limitation in joint motion was observed post-reconstruction.
- Patients reported high satisfaction with the aesthetic and functional results.
Conclusions:
- The reverse digital artery island flap provides abundant, well-matched tissue for fingertip reconstruction.
- It allows for a single operative field, simplifying treatment for single or multiple injuries.
- This technique offers aesthetic improvements and functional restoration.