Application of free wrist crease radial artery perforator flap for repair of finger skin defects

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of free wrist crease radial artery perforator flap for repair of finger skin defects. Methods From July 2015 to May 2018, 42 patients with finger skin defects were treated. All the wounds were combined with bone and tendon exposure and repaired with free wrist crease radial artery perforator flap. The area of skin defects ranged from 1.5 cm×1.2 cm to 3.9 cm×2.0 cm. The patients were followed up regularly after operation. The survival of the flaps and the functional recovery of the repair site were observed, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated. Results All the flaps survived without vascular crisis. The follow-up period was 5 to 28 months, with an average of 13.5 months. The flaps had good blood supply, soft texture and good elasticity. Among them, 2 flaps were slightly bulky and the appearance was improved after secondary plasty. The movement and sensory function of the affected fingers recovered well. Conclusion The application of free wrist crease radial artery perforator flap for repair of finger skin defects can achieve good clinical efficacy postoperatively. Key words: Finger injuries; Surgical flap; Radial artery; Microsurgery