ABSTRACT
Objective To discuss the treatment method and effect of the application of the dorsal branches island flaps of the digital arteries in clinic.Methods During January,2010 to February,2015,a total of 20 cases of palmar soft tissue defect of the 2nd-5th distal segments of single fingers were incorporated and repaired by the dorsal branches island flaps of the digital arteries in the base of the distal phalanx.The size of the selected flaps was 3.5 cm × 2.5 cm-2.0 cm × 2.0 cm.In addition,palmar soft tissue defect (n =15) of the 2nd-5th middle and distal segments of single fingers were repaired by the dorsal branches island flaps of the digital arteries at the 1/3 site of the proximal digital arteries,and the selected flaps size was 4.5 cm × 2.5 cm-3.0 cm × 2.0 cm.Full-thickness skin graft urethroplasty was used in the donor sites.Flap shape,texture,sensory recovery and texture of the skin region,function recovery of the wounded fingers were followed up at 1,3,and 6 months after operation.Results Thirty-five patients were followed up from 6 to 13 months (average of 7 months).All flaps survived completely in the incorporated 35 cases postoperatively.Flaps had satisfactory appearance,fine texture,and soft texture in the skin transplantation area.The postoperative improvement of sensory function was between S2 and S3,and the two-point discrimination was 10-15 mm.Assessment of the upper limb function using the standard issued by the Hand Surgery Society of Chinese Medical Association graded 23 cases as excellent,10 cases as good,and 2 cases as fair.Conclusion The dorsal branches island flaps of the digital arteries are characterized by easy dissection,reliable blood supply,and no major blood vessels needed to be sacrificed,which is an effective procedure for finger soft issue defect repairing.