Clinical application of the reverse dorsal metacarpal and digital fasciocutaneous flaps based on the dorsal cutaneous branches of the proper digital artery / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the effect of repairing soft tissue defects in the middle and distal phalanx with the reverse dorsal metacarpal and digital fasciocutaneous flap based on the dorsal cutaneous branches of the proper digital artery. Methods Twenty-five fingers with soft tissue defects in the middle and distal phalanx were repaired by the reverse dorsal metacarpal and digital fasciocutaneous flaps based on the dorsal cutaneous branches of the proper digital artery from June 2007 to June 2009. Their pivot points were located at the midpoint or distal segment of proximal phalanx. Results Among 25 flaps, 24 survived completely, but cuticular layer in the distal part of one flap was partially necrotic. Twenty flaps were followed up from 12 to 18 months after operation. All flaps were characterized by rich blood supply, cold-resistance, suitable thickness, soft texture and good colour, except that 6 flaps required a secondary operation because of their fat and clumsy pedicel. There was no adhesion of extensor tendon and contraction of interdigital web in the donor sites. Two-point discriminations of anastomosing cutaneous nerve ranged from 6 mm to 10 mm in 5 of the 20 flaps, and 8 mm to 14 mm in the other 15 flaps. Conclusion The dorsal metacarpal and digital fasciocutaneous flap based on the dorsal cutaneous branches of the proper digital artery is an ideal option for repairing soft tissue defects of middle and distal phalanx because of its advantages of easy and secure dissection, reliable blood supply, longer arch of rotation, being closer to the raw surface of finger, less injury to the donor site, good appearance, avoidance of sacrificing major arteries ,and high probability of reconstructing flap sensation by anastomosing cutaneous nerve.