Free dorsalis pedis sensory flap to the hand, with microneurovascular anastomoses

Since 1973 we have transferred various kinds of free flaps by microvascular surgery. In hand reconstruction, the free flap is less often required than in repairs of other sites, such as the leg. However, the importance of restoring sensibility in the hand is evident. Recently, we have transferred thin dorsalis pedis flaps as sensory free flaps in 5 cases of hand reconstruction, and we describe our experiences with them.