Repair of soft tissue defect of digit-tip with single subcutaneous pedicle V-Y advancing flap combined with skin grafting / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To explore the surgical method and therapeutic effect of repairing soft tissue defect of digit-tip with single subcutaneous pedicle V-Y advancing flap combined with skin grafting.Methods:From August 2013 to December 2020, 25 soft tissue defects of digit-tip were repaired by a single subcutaneous pedicle V-Y advancing flap combined with pedicle skin grafting. The area of the defects was 0.8 cm× 0.8 cm to 1.6 cm× 1.4 cm. The flaps were harvested from palm or lateral side of the wound and the area of flap was 0.5 cm×1.0 cm to 0.8 cm×2.5 cm. In order to make the flap transfer to a further distance, the subcutaneous fibre connection of the flap was cut-off during the operation. At the same time, cut off 1 side of subcutaneous pedicle. Finally, the advanced distance of the flap reached 0.5-1.2 cm. After the flap harvested, the medium thickness skin was removed for graft to close the donor site from the wrist striations. After the surgery, follow-up visits were conducted regularly by outpatient clinic, or via telephone or WeChat review or by home visit. Throughout the follow-up, the flap appearance, sensation and recovery of the function of digital joint were observed, together with the patient satisfaction. Results:After the surgery, the postoperative follow-up lasted for 4 months to 8 years. All 25 flaps and skin grafts were survived in first stage wound healing. The flaps and skin grafting areas had excellent texture. The fingerprint had been reconstructed with good appearance. The TPD was 4-9 mm, the functions of digital joint recovered well, and there was no complain about a discomfort at the donor site. According to the evaluation standard of Michigan hand function questionnaire, all 25 patients were very satisfied with the overall appearance and function of the hand. According to Total Angle of Motion (TAM) evaluation standard, finger mobility was excellent in all 25 patients.Conclusion:Subcutaneous V-Y advancing flap combined with skin grafting is an ideal method for repairing soft tissue defect of digit-tip. The surgery characterises a simple flap cutting, less traumatic damage, long advancing distance of flap and good repair effect.