A CTA-based classification of first plantar metatarsal arteries in thumb reconstruction / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To discusses effectiveness of CTA in the classification of first plantar metatarsal artery and its application value in thumb reconstruction.Methods:Thirty-six cases who underwent thumb reconstruction with free second toe or hallucis flap between December, 2015 and December, 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Among these cases, 22 cases were injured by machine stranding, 7 cases by heavy objects, and 7 cases were injured by rolling. Exact first plantar metatarsal arteries of all these cases were evaluated by using CTA preoperatively. And compared with intraoperative findings at the donor sites. Free first or second toe flap for thumb reconstruction were designed preoperatively based on branching pattern of first plantar metatarsal arteries.Results:The origin, course, 3-dimensional (3D) anatomical relationship with surrounding tissues and branching pattern of all these feet first plantar metatarsal arteries of 35 cases (70 feet)were well displayed in CTA images, and 1 case (2 feet) were showed poor vascular continuity and artifacts in CTA (2.78%). According to the branching pattern of first plantar metatarsal arteries, 29 cases (58 feet, 80.56%) were ramifying type, 5 cases (10 feet, 13.88%) were main trunk type, and 1 case (2 feet, 2.78%) were tiny branch type. Preoperative CTA images and intraoperative findings at the donor site of 35 cases were remarkably consistent. According to CTA images, 27 cases underwent thumb reconstruction with hallucis flap, 8 cases underwent thumb reconstruction with second toe, and 1 case of poor vascular continuity and artifacts in CTA underwent thumb reconstruction with hallucis flap eventually. All these cases were followed-up for 6-24 (average 12) months, and all reconstructed thumbs survived. The clinical outcomes of all these reconstructed thumbs were good with satisfactory appearance, sensory recovery, excellent motion. The donor feet of all cases recovered well.Conclusion:High-quality 3D images of first plantar metatarsal arteries could be obtained by CTA, allowing preoperative assessment of blood supply and planning of donor site. Therefore, success rate of reconstructed operation could be improved with low disability rate of donor site.