ABSTRACT
Objective To discuss the surgery procedure and treatment effect of reconstruction of the soft tissue of the thumb/finger defects by the second toe tibial toe pulp skin flap. Methods Ten patients with the soft tissue of pulp of the thumb/finger defects were treat by the same side of the second toe tibial toe pulp skin flap, all the patients have the soft tissue defect of finger pulp with exposed phalanx. Crush them in 4 cases, the machine cut wound in 6 cases. A fixed 2 cases, delayed operation 3-7d after injury to repair in 8 patients. The side of skin flap varied from 2.0 cm × 2.2 cm to 2.0 cm × 3.5 cm. Results Ten fingers in 10 cases all survived. Necrosis in edge part of the shin graft occurred in 2 cases, which was healed through changing of dressing. All cases were followed form 4 months to 16 months. The blood-supply, texture and elasticity of transferred flaps and the shape of fingers pulp were excellent. Good function recovery of the fingers was achieved. Pain and temperature sence were regained. Two point discrimination of the finger pulp was 5-9 mm.Primary healing occurred in all cases. It did not disturb dressing shoes and walking. Conclusion It is a reliable approach for soft-tissue coverage of the thumb/finger using the second toe tibial toe pulp skin flap based on distal perforators of digital artery or ulnar artery. The advantages include simply procedures, reliable blood supply without sacrificing main aneries and possibilities of sensoly recovery.