Long-term evaluation of the reverse digital artery island flap in the treatment of finger pulp defects
Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of reverse digital artery island flap surgery for finger pulp defects for 8 years.Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 19 patients with finger pulp defects repaired using a reverse digital artery island flap in our hospital from January 2013 to December 2015,all of whom were single finger injuries.There were 7 cases of index finger,8 cases of middle finger,3 cases of ring finger,and 1 case of little finger.Results All skin flaps and graft areas showed pigmentation.15 patients were satisfied with the flap repair,2 were average,and 2 were dissatisfied.No cold intolerance was observed.According to the evaluation criteria of the Chinese Society of Hand Surgery for upper limb function,15 cases were rated as excellent and 4 cases were rated as good.The circumference of the distal interphalangeal joint of the injured finger,the active range of motion of the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints of the injured finger,and the static two-point discrimination of the skin flap showed statistically significant differences compared to the healthy side of the same finger.There were 7 cases of sensory recovery assessment S3 and 12 cases of S3+.Conclusion The reverse digital artery island flap is one of the repair options for digital pulp defects,which has the characteristics of reliable blood supply and simple operation.Although there was a slight improvement in sensory recovery during follow-up,it was acceptable.Postoperative functional exercise is necessary to address the issue of limited joint mobility.How to solve pigmentation is also one of the issues that needs attention.
Finger injuriesTreatment outcomeReverse digital artery island flapLong-term follow-up