The repair of the defects of two fingertips with free tibial pedicle double flaps of the second toe

Abstract

Objective To explore the surgical method and clinical efficacy of two free flaps pedicled with the tibial proper toe artery of the second toe for repair of the defects of two fingertips. Methods From November 2014 to September 2018, five patients with the defects of two fingertips were treated with one pedicle double flaps of the tibial side of the second toe in emergency. The proper artery of the tibial side of the second toe was used as the vascular pedicle. The blood circulation of the two flaps and the injured finger was reconstructed. The donor site was replanted with full thickness skin graft of the medial leg. Results All the 10 finger flaps survived uneventfully. The donor and recipient wounds achieved primary healing without vascular crisis. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 24 months with an average of 12 months. The appearance, sensation and function of the free flaps recovered well. No second operation was needed to thin the flaps. There were no obvious scar hyperplasia and contracture in the donor site, no abrasion resistance and pain. Conclusion The application of two free flaps from the tibial side of the second toe to repair fingertip defect of two fingers can cover the defect wound, ensure the appearance, sensation and function of the finger, reduce the number of donor sites and damage. It is an ideal repair method. Key words: Finger injuries; Surgical flaps; The second toe; One pedicle and double flaps