Second toe plantar flap for partial finger reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Microsurgery

Background:

• Partial finger tissue defects pose challenges for reconstruction, requiring methods that restore both form and function.
• Traditional reconstructive techniques may result in donor site morbidity and suboptimal aesthetic outcomes.

Observation:

• The second toe plantar flap, a free neurovascular skin flap, is utilized for reconstructing partial finger tissue defects.
• The flap incorporates artery and nerve from the plantar neurovascular bundle and a vein from the dorsal or plantar vein.

Findings:

• This procedure yields satisfactory aesthetic and functional improvements at the recipient site.
• Patients experience good aesthetic results with minimal donor site morbidity, including no contracture or visible scarring.
• All reconstructed cases demonstrated satisfactory sensory restoration and aesthetic appearance.

Implications:

• The second toe plantar flap is an effective and advantageous option for finger tissue reconstruction.
• This technique offers a balance between recipient site benefits and donor site preservation.
• Further application of this method can enhance reconstructive surgery outcomes for digital defects.