Clinical analysis of the reverse digital island flap

ABSTRACT

Fingertip injuries represent the most common type of injuries were seen in the upper extrimity. Reconstruction of a injured digit needs good aesthetic result as well as functional recovery. From August 1994 to August 1996, sixty two digits in the fifty four patients were treated by using the reverse digital island flaps. The age of the patients ranged from 13 to 64 years. We reviewed the medical records of our cases and analyzed them in several aspects. Majority of the cases (79%) were covered primarily. Neurorrhaphy was performed in 26 digits (42%). The survival of these flaps was successful in all cases except one case. The mean values of the static two point discrimination in sensate and nonsensate flaps were 6.5 mm and 10.3 mm retrospectively. In this study, venous congestion was the most common early complication (9.6%). Arterial insufficiency and flap loss (6.4%) were the troublesome early complications. Bulky mushroom shaped flap (24.6%), scar contracture (6.4%), paronychia (8.2%), cold intolerance (9.6%), hyperesthesia (3.2%) and flap atrophy (4.8%) were the late complications. In conclusion, despites of its complications, reverse digital island flap provide durable skin cover, superior aesthetic result and excellent sensory restoration.