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Objective:To compare the clinical effects between the homodigital radial flap of the dorsal cutaneous branch of radial palmar proper digital artery (PPDA) and the homodigital reverse island flap of the ulnar dorsal digital artery (DDA) on reconstruction of defects in thumb-tip or thumb-pulp.Methods:The retrospective case-control study method was used. From January 2016 to August 2022, a total of 65 thumb-tip or thumb-pulp defects were treated in the Department of Hand Surgery of the Second Hospital of Tangshan. Thirty-five defects of thumbs were reconstructed with the homodigital radial flap pedicled with dorsal cutaneous branch of radial PPDA (PPDA group) and the other 30 thumbs were treated by the homodigital ulnar reverse island flap pedicled with ulnar DDA (DDA group). Sizes of the wounds and flaps in PPDA group were 1.9 cm×1.5 cm to 2.9 cm×2.4 cm and 2.1 cm× 1.7 cm to 3.1 cm×2.6 cm, respectively, and the dimensions of the wounds and flaps in DDA group were 2.0 cm× 1.7 cm to 2.9 cm×2.5 cm and 2.2 cm×1.9 cm to 3.2 cm×2.8 cm, respectively. The wounds of donor site in both groups were all directly closed. Survival of the flaps and wound healing of donor sites were observed in both groups. The time of surgery and duration of follow-up of the 2 groups were recorded. Postoperative follow-up included outpatient clinic visits, telephone reviews and WeChat video-clips. At the final follow-up, record of total active motion (TAM) of the injured thumbs, angle of first web of the affected hands, static TPD of the flaps, patient satisfaction of the appearance of flaps and donor sites were taken. According to the Michigan Hand Function Questionnaire (MHQ) evaluation criteria, the patient satisfaction of the appearance of flaps and donor sites were evaluated. The measurement and count data acquired from both groups were compared by independent sample t-test and χ2 tests or Fisher's exact test, respectively. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results:All 35 flaps in PPDA group and 26 flaps in DDA group survived primarily, except 4 flaps in the DDA group that showed blisters and healed with dressing changes. The primary survival rate of flap in PPDA group (100%) was higher than that of DDA group (87%), and the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Donor sites of both groups healed primary. The time of surgery and duration of follow-up in PPDA and DDA groups were 59.11 minutes±5.42 minutes and 15.37 months±3.32 months, and 61.27 minutes±5.96 minutes and 16.17 months±3.60 months, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups ( P>0.05). At the final follow-up, the thumb TAM and angle of thumb web in PPDA and DDA groups were 135.14°±10.04° and 90.29°±4.36° and 132.17°±11.04° and 89.00°±4.81°, respectively. There was no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups ( P>0.05). The static TPD, patient satisfaction of the appearance of flaps and donor sites in PPDA group were 7.11 mm±1.21 mm, 4.69 point±0.47 point and 4.43 point±0.50 point, which were better than DDA group [8.20 mm±1.47 mm, 4.40 point±0.50 point and 4.13 point±0.57 point, respectively] with a statistically significant difference ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The homodigital radial flap of the dorsal cutaneous branch of radial PPDA and the homodigital ulnar reverse island flap of the ulnar DDA are both suitable for reconstruction of defects in thumb-tip or thumb-pulp. Compared with the homodigital reverse island flap with the DDA, a homodigital radial flap with the dorsal cutaneous branch of PPDA has advantages in higher primary survival rate, better flap sensation and appearance at both of recipient and donor sites.
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Objective:To explore the surgical procedure and effect of reconstruction of soft tissue defects in the distal segment of dorsal finger with a perforator(joint branch) flap of proper palmar digital artery combined with a dorsal metacarpal artery flap.Methods:From January 2019 to June 2022, 9 patients with soft tissue defects in distal dorsal finger, mostly with avulsion at the extensor tendon insertion point, were treated in Department of Hand and Foot Microsurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. The defect areas were 1.0 cm×1.0 cm-2.5 cm×2.0 cm. Steel wires were used to reconstruct the extensor tendon insertion point. The defects were reconstructed by a perforator(joint) flap of proximal phalanx artery and a dorsal metacarpal artery flap was used to repair the donor site for proximal flap. Postoperative follow-up and evaluation included flap survival, flap appearance, scars and function of interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints, through outpatient clinical, WeChat and so on.Results:The flap of digital artery perforator (joint branch) and the fasciocutaneous flap of dorsal metacarpal artery all survived. One flap of the digital artery perforator(joint branch) appeared purple and tension blisters after surgery. The stitches of the pedicle of the flap were partially dismantled at 36-48 hours after surgery. The flap was then turned to ruddy in colour 7 days after surgery. The wounds of the distal finger joint and nail bed healed well without redness and infection. The postoperative follow-up lasted for 5 to 12 months, 9 months in average. The appearance, colour and texture of the skin at distal finger were similar to those at the dorsal proximal finger and dorsal palm. Sensation recovered well, all flaps exceeding S 3. The two-point resolution (TPD) was 8-10 mm, with an average of 9.5 mm. According to the Evaluation Standard of Upper Limb Partial Functional of Hand Surgery of Chinese Medical Association, 5 cases were in excellent and 4 in good. Conclusion:The perforator(joint branch) flap of proper palmar digital artery combined with a dorsal metacarpal artery flap is simple and safe treatment. It has a fast functional recovery with an aesthetic appearance in reconstruction of the soft tissue defect in distal segment of dorsal finger.
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Objective:To compare the clinical effectiveness of propeller flap and vascular chain flap based on dorsal cutaneous branch of proper palmar digital artery for repair of wounds of fingertip or finger-pulp.Methods:From April 2018 to May 2021, a total of 55 patients (55 fingers) with wounds of fingertip or finger-pulp in the 2nd-5th fingers were treated in emergency surgery in the Department of Hand Surgery, the Second Hospital of Tangshan. The patients were randomly divided into 2 groups by the method of drawing lots. The wounds of 29 patients (29 fingers) were repaired by propeller flaps based on dorsal cutaneous branch of proper palmar digital artery (propeller group) and that of 26 patients(26 fingers) were treated by vascular chain flaps based on dorsal cutaneous branch of proper palmar digital artery(vascular chain group). Survival of the flaps and the skin grafts at donor sites were observed between the 2 groups. The operation and follow-up time in both groups were recorded. Postoperative follow-up included outpatient clinic visits, telephone reviews and WeChat video-clips. At final follow-up, the static TPD of the flaps, patient satisfaction with the appearance of flaps and donor sites and the Range of motion(ROM) of the injured fingers were recorded. The measurement and count data of both groups were compared by independent sample t-test, χ2 tests or Fisher's exact test, respectively. P<0.05 was considered a statistically significant. Results:All the flaps and skin grafts survived primarily in both groups. The operation time in propeller group was 57.55 minutes±4.35 minutes. It was less than what in the vascular chain group (61.12 minutes±4.58 minutes) and with statistically significant difference( P<0.05). The follow-up period was 14.55 months±2.89 months in propeller group and 15.15 months±3.78 months in the vascular chain group. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups( P>0.05). At final follow-up, the static TPD and patient satisfaction with the appearance of flaps in propeller group were 6.55 mm±1.24 mm and 4.59±0.50, which were better than 7.46 mm±1.27 mm and 4.31±0.47 in the vascular chain group with a statistically significant difference( P<0.05). The patient satisfaction with the appearance of donor sites and ROM of the injured digital joints in propeller group were 4.45±0.57 and 190.86°±8.56°, while what in the vascular chain group were 4.35±0.56 and 185.96°±10.58°. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups( P>0.05). Conclusion:The propeller flap and vascular chain flap are both based on dorsal cutaneous branch of proper palmar digital artery and are both suitable for repair of wounds of fingertip or finger-pulp. Compared with the vascular chain flap, the propeller flap has the advantages in shorter operation time, better flap sensation and appearance.
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Objective:To summarise the clinical efficacy and surgical indications for free hallux toe nail flap and adjacent island flap of the middle and ring fingers in repair of distal thumb degloving injuries.Methods:From May 2009 to May 2021, a total of 24 patients (24 digits) with degloving injury of distal thumbs were treated in the Department of Hand and Microsurgery of Baoji Third Hospital. The flap was selected according to the patient's wishes and occupation. Of the 24 patients, 13 were repaired by free hallux toe nail flap transfer (group of hallux toe nail flap), and 11 were repaired by combining the proper palmar digital artery island flap of middle (ulnar side) and ring (radial side) fingers with the same volar common digital artery vascular pedicle (group of tile combined flap). Follow-up was performed at the 1st, 3rd, 6th,12th and 18th months after surgery respectively through outpatient clinic and telephone or WeChat interviews. The follow-ups focused on the appearance, colour, texture and two-point discrimination (TPD) of the flap, as well as thumb flexion, extension, opposition and grasping functions. Functional recovery evaluated according to the Evaluation Standard of Upper Limb Partial Functional of Hand Surgery of Chinese Medical Association.Results:All the 24 flaps survived and all were included in the follow-up. The follow-up lasted 12-60 and 6-18 months, with an average of (18.5±0.5) months and (6.8±0.3) months in group of hallux toe nail flap and group of tile combined flap, respectively. Appearance of thumb body and function at the last follow-up showed: in the group of hallux toe nail flap, the nails, thumbtips and fine sensations were restored, with the TPD at 5-8 mm. The thumb flexion, extension, opposition and grasping functions were good. Apart from without nails and fingerprint, the flaps in the group of tile combined flap had good appearance and texture, and the protective feeling was restored with the TPD at 6-11 mm. The affected thumbs also recovered the basic functions of flexion, extension, opposition and grasping. According to the Trial Standard of Upper Limb Function Evaluation of the Chinese Medical Association Hand Surgery Society, 7 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, and 1 case was poor in the group of hallux toe nail flap. In the group of tile combined flap, 3 cases were in excellent, 5 in good, and 3 in poor. Appearance of flaps (such as nails and thumbtip fingerprint), fine sensory recovery, and the accuracy and stability of the grasping function, the group of hallux toe nail flap was significantly better than that of the group of tile combined flap. There was no functional impact on the donor site.Conclusion:Both types of flap are classic surgical procedures for repair of distal thumb degloving injury. In order to meet the individual requirement and to improve the efficacy of the treatment, such as for those who have high expectation for digit restoration, especially those who are young with aesthetical or professional requirement, free hallux toe nail flap repair is used to restore the perfect shape and function. And for those who are reluctant to sacrifice their toes or for the middle-aged and elderly people who do not have high expectation for the shape of thumb, a tile combined flap repair is used to restore thumb function.
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Objective:To investigate the surgical technique and clinical effect of the island flap of dorsal branch of proper palmar digital artery in repair of the soft tissue defect of digits.Methods:From March 2013 to March 2021, 22 cases of digit soft tissue defects were repaired with dorsal branch of proper palmar digital artery island flap. The digit defects involved: 9 thumbs, 5 index fingers, 3 middle fingers, 3 ring fingers and 2 little fingers. The repair of defects covered 8 digit-tips, 7 pulps and 7 dorsal and nail beds. The defected area of soft tissue was 0.8 cm×0.5 cm-1.5 cm×8.0 cm, and the size of flap was 1.0 cm×0.7 cm-1.8 cm×1.0 cm. The donor site in 6 cases was closed directly. The other 16 cases were covered with medium thickness skin graft and pressurised bandaging. The follow-up reviews were carried out via the outpatient clinic visit, telephone or WeChat interview. Results:After operation, 1 flap had cyanosis due to a tight suture and it was relieved after the removal of intermittent suture; Tension blisters appeared in 2 cases and disappeared after 1 week; One case had necrosis at distal flap and healed after dressing change. Other flaps survived successfully and the incision and donor site healed in the first stage. All patients were entered to 6 to 18(mean 10) months of follow-up. At the final follow-up, the appearance and texture of the flaps were good and the protective sensation was restored. The flexion and extension function of the affected digit was normal with the TPD at 7-11 mm. The original shape and function of the digit body were basically reconstructed, except the failure in reconstruction of the special structure of digit body, such as nail, finger pulp thread and fine sensation. According to the Evaluation Standard of Upper Limb Function of Chinese Hand Surgery Society, 11 cases were in excellent, 9 in good and 2 in fair. The excellent and good rate was 91%. The function at donor sites was not affected.Conclusion:Repair of digit soft tissue defect with dorsal branch of proper palmar digital artery island flap is easy to operate, and with a low risk, high success rate and satisfactory curative effect.
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Objective:To explore the surgical procedure and clinical effect of the free Flow-through superficial peroneal artery flap for repairing the digit injury with defect of proper palmar digital artery.Methods:From June, 2015 to December, 2019, free Flow-through superficial peroneal artery flap was used to repair the digit injury and to bridge the proper digital artery in 7 digits of 7 patients. There were 2 thumbs, 3 index fingers and 2 middle fingers. The size of defects on digits ranged from 2.5 cm×3.0 cm to 5.0 cm×7.0 cm. The defects of digit proper artery were 1.0 to 3.0 cm. The size of flaps was from 3.0 cm×3.5 cm to 5.5 cm×8.0 cm. The donor areas of the flap were directly sutured or covered with skin graft. Postoperative supportive treatments were given, such as infection prevention, antispasmodic, anticoagulant, analgesia and fluid infusion. The patients were kept in bed for 1 week after surgery. Monthly follow-up review were conducted and the patients were kept with the rehabilitation exercises under medical guidance.Results:All the patients entered postoperative followed-up for 6 to 18 months, with an average of 8 months. All flaps survived without any adverse event. All wounds achieved stage-one-healing. The flaps appeared in good colour, texture, elasticity and the plumps of the digit without obvious bloating. There was no obvious swelling and atrophy of the digits. The skin temperature was normal. According to the Standard for Evaluation of Upper Limb Function by the Hand Surgery Society of Chinese Medical Association, 3 digits were excellent and 4 were good. There was no obvious scar at the donor site of shank. The donor site had a good appearance and the limb function was not affected.Conclusion:The free Flow-through superficial peroneal artery flap is an ideal material to repair the defect of digit with the defect of proper digital artery. It has the advantages of simple surgical procedure, reliable blood supply and satisfactory appearance. The defect of proper digit artery can be repaired at the same time of the surgical procedure. The blood supply, appearance and function of the digits could be well recovered and the donor site is not affected.
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Objective:To describe the reconstruction of palmar soft tissue defect of digit using dorsal digital flaps including double dorsal branches of the proper palmar digital nerves (DBPPDN) and report the results of the application of the flaps.Methods:From May, 2005 to April, 2019, a retrospective study was conducted on 113 digits of 113 patients who had palmar soft tissue defects in single digit treated with 4 types of dorsal digital flaps with bilaterally DBPPDN. Flap types: ① Modified cross-digit flap in 29 digits of 29 cases; ②Dorsal digital flap based on the dorsal branch of proper palmar digital artery (DBPPDA) in 43 digits of 43 cases; ③First dorsal metacarpal artery flap in 23 digits of 23 cases; ④ Free dorsal digit flap in 18 digits of 18 cases. In control group, single-innervated flap was used for repair of the defects, only one of injured proper palmar digital nerves on both sides was repaired with DBPPDN. Static TPD, VAS and patient satisfaction of the injured digits were evaluated by means of outpatient follow-up. The t test was applied to compare the 2 groups in relation to the quantitative outcomes. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results:In the dual-innervated flap group, flap ischemia was shown in 11 digits and venous congestion was noted in 7 digits. Partial necrosis was noted in 9 flaps and healed without surgical intervention. In the dual-innervated and single-innervated flap groups, the mean static TPD were (6.92±0.12) mm and (8.92±0.20) mm, the score of VAS were (0.46±0.08) and (1.11±0.28), and patient satisfaction were (4.45±0.06) and (4.00±0.16). Significant difference was found between the 2 groups in static TPD, VAS and patient satisfaction. Dual-innervated flaps presented better discriminatory sensation on the flap ( P<0.01) and lower pain incidence ( P=0.0032) and higher patient satisfaction ( P=0.0014). Conclusion:The 4 types of dual-innervated flap are useful in reconstruction of palmar soft tissue defects of digits, especially in prevention of neuropathic pain.
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Objective:To compare the clinical effect of perforator flap of proper palmar digital and hallex fibular flap in repair of soft tissue defect of fingers.Methods:A total of 52 patients with finger soft tissue injury were reviewed from January, 2017 to January, 2019. Twenty-seven patients were repaired by perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery, and 25 by hallex fibular flaps. Both groups of patients had only soft tissue defects without phalangeal fracture. Postoperative follow-up were conducted by phone, WeChat and visit of outpatient clinic. The recovery of finger sensory function was evaluated according to the Trial Standard for Replantation Evaluation of Severed Digit by the Hand Surgery Society of Chinese Medical Association. The flaps were evaluated according to the shape, patient satisfaction and finger function and classified in excellent, good, fair and poor. Data of the 2 groups of patients were collected and statistically analysed by SPSS 22.0. P<0.05 was statistically significant. Results:Both groups entered follow-up for 12-16 months. All flaps in both groups survived. There was statistically significant difference of TPD between the 2 groups[TPD were 4-7(5.3±1.2) mm and 6-10(8.4±1.7)mm, respectively]( t=7.642, P=0.000). According to the Evaluation Criteria of the Hand Surgery Society of the Chinese Medical Association. In the group repaired by perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery, 17 fingers were excellent, 6 good, and 4 fair, with a 85.1% of excellent and good rate. In the group repaired by hallex fibular flap, 8 fingers were excellent, 5 good, 9 fair, and 3 poor, with a 52.0% of excellent and good rate. The difference between 2 groups was statistically significant ( t=6.710, P=0.009). There was a 3.7% incidence of complications in the group repaired by perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery, and 25.9% in the group repaired by hallex fibular flap. The difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant( t=4.167, P=0.032), and there was a higher incidence of complications in the group repaired by hallex fibular flap. Conclusion:The perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery and the hallex fibular flap are good choices in the repair of finger soft tissue defect. However, the postoperative complication of the hallux fibular flap is relatively high. Therefore, it is necessary to make a decision in the choice of flap according to the actual situation in clinical work.
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Objective:To explore the surgical method and therapeutic effect of repairing digital tip defect with free flap of proximal perforating branch of proper palmar digital artery.Methods:From March, 2009 to January, 2021, 15 patients with soft tissue defects at the tip of 16 digits were repaired with free perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery. The flap was obtained from the ulnar side of an index finger, on both sides of a middle finger and on the proximal side of the radial side of the ring finger. The size of flaps was 1.8 cm × 1.2 cm - 4.5 cm × 2.2 cm. The flap carried dorsal branch of proper palmar digital nerve and 0.5-4.5 cm of arteriae digitales palmares propriae. The donor digital artery was re-anastomosed in 3 cases 3 digits, transferred and anastomosed in 2 cases and un-anastomosed in 10 cases 11 digits. The dorsal branch of the proper palmar digital nerve in the flap was anastomosed with the proper palmar digital nerve of the finger stump at the recipient site to restore the sensation of flap, and the donor sites at the wrist transverse stripes or elbow transverse stripes were directly sutured. Regular follow-up via outpatient visit, telephone or WeChat interviews was conducted to observe the appearance, sensation and recovery of the flap and finger joint function.Results:After surgery, the flaps and donor site skin grafts of 15 cases with 16 digits were all survived, with first stage healing. A 4 months to 12 years follow-up showed that the flaps were in good texture and full shape with TPD at 7 - 11 mm. The joint function of digits was recovered well, and there was no complaint about uncomfortable donor site. According to the Michigan Hand Function Questionnaire, all 15 patients were satisfied with the overall appearance and function of the hands. According to TAM evaluation standard, all the digits of 15 patients were in excellent.Conclusion:Free flap of the proximal perforating branch of proper palmar digital artery is an ideal in the repair of digital tip soft tissue defect, as it has the advantages of an anatomical constant vessel, hidden donor site, less trauma caused, simple flap resection and good therapeutic effect.
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Objective:To explore the surgical method and therapeutic effect of repairing thumb pulp defect with pedicled transposition of radial proper palmar digital artery flap of middle finger.Methods:Since June, 2006 to May, 2020, 17 cases(17 fingers) with thumb pulp defect were repaired by pedicled transposition of radial proper palmar digital artery flap of middle finger. The sizes of flap ranged from 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm to 4.2 cm × 2.0 cm. The antegrade pedicled flap of radial proper palmar digital artery of middle finger was used in 2 cases and the retrograde pedicled flap of middle finger was used in 15 cases. After the flap was resected, the donor sites were covered with a medium thickness skin graft transferred from the wrist or elbow. The skin graft did not need to be packed. The dorsal branch of the digital nerve was included in the flap and it was anastomosed with the proper nerve of the injured thumb stump. After 16-22 days of the operation, the pedicles were cut off. The patients were instructed to perform digit function exercise after the pedicle was cut off. After the operation, the patients were included in regularly follow-up through outpatient visit, telephone or WeChat interview. The appearance and sensation of the thumb and finger pulps and the function recovery of the thumb and finger joints were observed through the followed-ups.Results:All 17 flaps and donor site skin grafts survived over 3 to 32 months of follow-up. The flaps achieved good texture and natural appearance. The TPD recovered to 5~11 mm. According to the Michigan Hand Function Questionnaire, all the 17 patients were very satisfied with the overall appearance and function of the hands. According to TAM, the 17 cases were all in excellent.Conclusion:Repairing thumb pulp defect with radial proper palmar digital artery pedicled flap of middle finger, the flap resection is simple, and the donor site is hidden. The appearance and texture of flap is good. It is a safe, effective and good method.
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Objective To explore the application and clinical effect of blood bridge venous flap in finger wound with proper palmar digital artery defect. Methods From February,2007 to September,2016,11 cases of fin-ger wound with artery defect were repaired with forearm vein free flap by the way of bridging blood vessels. The time from injury to surgery was 1.5 to 6 hours(average 2.5 hours).Vascular defect length was 1.4 to 3.4 cm(average 2.3 cm). 8 cases were bridged the unilateral digital artery and 3 cases were bridged the both side. The area of skin flap was 1.5 cm × 2.0 cm to 2.2 cm × 3.5 cm and the donor site was sutured directly. Results One case appeared necrosis in marginal part and healed after dressing change. The other flaps and finger survived and the incisions healed well.All the 11 cases were followed up after operation. The follow-up time ranged from 6 to 20 months, aver-aged 10 months. The color and texture were well,the sensation of temperature, pain and tactile were recovered, and the flap had good contour. According to TAM system evaluation method: 6 cases got excellent results,4 cases were good,1 case was poor. The donor site only had a linear scar and the flexion and extension of wrist were not limited. Conclusion Flow bridging venous flap can reconstruct the finger blood and repair the wound simultaneously. To the finger with nerve or tendon defect,bridged with the cutaneous nerve or palmaris longus tendon can also get satisfactory result.
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Objective To compare the clinical effect and operation difficulty of the combined skin flap with reversed proper palmar digital arterial dorsal branch island flap and cross-finger flap and the abdominal flap in the treatment of distal finger degloving injury.Methods Inclusion criteria:①Soft tissue defect far beyond the level of distal interphalangeal joints.②The inured finger was from second to fifth.③Single finger injury.④ Iniury time within 8 h.Exclusive criteria:①With tendon injury.② Multiple finger injuries.③Followed-up time within 6 months.Between February,2009 and September,2016,52 patients (52 fingers) with distal finger degloving injury were reviewed,there were 32 males and 20 females,aged from 18 to 60 (36.02±11.00) years.The time from injury to operation was 2.5-8.0 (4.81±1.28) h.Affected fingers included index finger in 15 cases,middle finger in 22 cases,ring finger in 10 cases,and little finger in 5 cases.Twenty patients (20 fingers) were treated by combined skin flap with reversed digital arterial dorsal branch island flap and cross-finger flap(group combined-flap).The cubital skin was grafted onto the donor sites.Thirty-two patients (32 fingers) were treated by abdominal flap (group abdominal-flap).Results The patients were followed-up 6-25 (9.25±3.97) months.The operation time:group combined-flap was 80-130 (98.46±8.34) min and group abdominal-flap was 85-125(107.84±8.63)min.There was no significant difference in two groups (P＞0.05).Pedicle division time:group combined-flap was 15-24 (16.75±1.74) d and group abdominal-flap was 24-45 (28.31±5.12) d.There was a significant difference in two groups (P＜0.05).And the pedicle division time in group combined-flap was much shorter than in group abdominal-flap.Flap function at last follow-up,the excellent and good rate of the flap in group combined-flap and group abdominal-flap was 90.00％ and 59.38％,respectively.There was a significant difference in two groups (P＜0.05),and the flap function in group combined-flap was much better than in group abdominal-flap.Affected finger function at last follow-up,the excellent and good rate of the affected fingers was 95.00％ and 71.88％.There was a significant difference in two groups (P＜0.05),and the affected finger function in group combined-flap was much better than in group abdominal-flap.Conclusion The combined skin flap with reversed digital arterial dorsal branch island flap and cross-finger flap is a simple and high-survival-rate flap,whose texture,appearance and clinical outcome for repair of distal finger degloving injury are much better than traditional abdominal flap.
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Objective To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of using the propeller flaps based on the terminal dorsal branch of proper palmar digital arteries for fingertip reconstruction.Methods From September,2013 to September,2016,25 fingers (25 patients) underwent fingertip reconstruction by using propeller flaps pedicled with the terminal dorsal branch of digital arteries.There were 18 males and 7 females with mean age of 33 years.The injured fingers requiring reconstruction included 13 index,6 middle,5 ring and 1 little fingers.The size of the propeller flaps:small paddles were 0.6 cm×0.4 cm-2.1 cm×0.4 cm;big paddles were 3.0 cm×1.3 cm-5.5 cm ×2.0 cm.The donor sites were closed directly in 16 cases,and skin graft appiled in 9 cases.Results Twenty-three cases fingertip defects were successfully reconstructed with this flap.One case of flap necrosis occurred,requiring secondary revision using a cross-finger flap.Donor sites healed without any complication.The mean follow-up period was 11.5 months (range:7-29 months).Fingers restored good shape and function.At 6 months after surgery,the 2-point discrimination value was 6.5 mm (range,6-10 mm).In 2 cases,protective sensation was successfully restored.The postoperative extension and flexion function was evaluated by the total active movement (TAM) system of finger joints:excellent in 20 fingers,good in 4 fingers and fair in 1 finger.The excellent and good rate was 96％.Conclusion The propeller flap based on the terminal dorsal branch of the proper palmar digital arteries to repair fingertip defect has advantages of achieving good function,appearance and minimized damage to the donor site,which is a effective method in reconstructing the fingertip defect.
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Objective To study the surgical techniques and the clinical curative ettect of the reconstruction of adjacent large finger pulps with the modified sensate free proximal ulnar artery perforator flap.Methods From February,2013 to May,2016,20 fingers in 10 patients with adjacent large finger pulp defects crossing the DIP joint were reconstructed by the modified senate free proximal ulnar artery perforator flap.All the pulps of every patient were recovered by 1 flap in the first stage and the artificial syndactyly of two digits was divided in 7 weeks after the flap transfer in the second stage.In order to reconstruct the sensation of two pulps in each patient,firstly both of the proximal and distal ends of the cutaneous nerve in flaps were dissected and anastomosed with the most lateral and medial palmar digital nerves of two adjacent fingers respectively,which were divided into 2 groups.Secondly the cutaneous nerve in the middle part of flap was cut and the two ends were anastomosed with the other two palmar digital nerves in the second surgery.There were 8 fingers in 4 patients with the index and middle finger pulp defects,12 fingers in 6 patients with the middle and ring finger defects.The flap size was from 5.0 cm×3.5 cm to 5.5 cm×4.0 cm,and the perforator artery was anastomosed with the palmar digital artery in 6 cases and with the joint branch of digital artery in 4 cases.Results Nine flaps survived uneventfully except the venous congestion was found in 1 flap which was salvaged successfully by acupuncture bleeding.Also,no congestion or ischemia of all the 20 pulp flaps occurred right after releasing the artificial syndactyly.The time of followed-up was from 11 months to 32 months with the average of 17 months after the second surgery.The static two point discrimination of the 2 groups of the sensate pulp flap was (7.3 ± 1.2) mm and (8.6 ±2.4) mm respectively.There was no significant difference between groups (P ＞ 0.05).These 20 pulp flaps were also assessed by the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test with the result of diminished light touch in 14 pulps and diminished protective touch in 6 pulps.The total active motion in all 20 fingers was (248.0±4.5) °.No patients suffered cold intolerance and local pain but 1 had hypersensitiveness in the pulp flap.Conclusion The modified sensate free proximal ulnar arte~ perforator flap is a practical alternative for the reconstruction of two large adjacent pulps with satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes.
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Objective To evaluate the value of the color Doppler ultrasonography in assessing the changes of the superficial palmar arch arteries and the proper palmar digital arteries in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon.Methods The color Doppler ultrasonography was used to check the left superficial palmar arch arteries and the left middle finger proper palmar digital arteries in 42 patients with Raynaud's phenomenon (case group).The blood vessel flow,blood flow filling and hemodynamic parameters were recorded.The hemodynamic parameters include peak systolic velocity (PSV),end diastolic velocity (EDV),resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI).The control group was 35 healthy adults who received physical examination.The above parameters were measured,and the difference of the parameters between the case group and the control group were compared.Results The blood flow signal dispayed rate of the left superficial palmar arch arteries of case group was good,almost 100％ (42/42);the blood flow of the middle finger proper palmar digital arteries was poor,the blood vessel was thinner and even occluded,the blood flow signal displayed rate was 92.86％ (39/42).Compared with the control group,the PSV and EDV of the left middle finger proper palmar digital arteries decreased,the EDV of the superficial palmar arch arteries decreased also,but the RI and PI increased in case group (all P＜0.05),The PSV of the left superficial palmar arch arteries of the case group was lower than that of the control group,and there was no significant difference between both groups (P＞0.05).Conclusion The color Doppler ultrasonography can evaluate the hemodynamic changes of the proper palmar digital arteries and the superficial palmar arch arteries in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon,and provide effective evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon.
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Objective To discuss a design of flap of dorsal branches of the digital proper artery to repair pediatric middle phalanx skin defects and its effect.Methods From October,2013 to March,2015,antegrade flaps were used to treat 9 pediatric patients with skin defect in middle phalanx,the dorsal branches of the digital proper artery were used as the pedicel.The dorsal branch of digital proper nerve carried by flap was sutured with digital proper nerve in wound surface of middle phalanx,flap cutting area was 3.5 cm × 1.2 cm-2.5 cm × 0.8 cm,the donor site of flap was repaired by full thickness skin graft.Results All the 9 flaps survived,and primary healing in the wound of donor and recipient site.The 9 patients were followed up for 6-12 months,with an average of 8 months.All the flaps had soft texture and full shape,the two-point discrimination was 5-9 mm,6.5 mm on average.Conclusion To repair skin defect in the middle phalanx with flap using the dorsal branches of the digital proper artery as the pedicel and sutured the dorsal branch of digital proper nerve,combine advantages of the simplicity,high skin flap survival rate,good postoperative appearance and sensation recovery.
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Objective To explore the clinical effect of dorsal digital artery reverse island flap in the repair of distal finger skin defect.Methods From January,2011 to January,2015,60 fingers of 60 cases with dorsal branch of the digital artery were used to repair the defect of the distal finger skin.The 30 refers to the index finger,middle finger 15 fingers,10 ring fingers and 5 little fingers.Harvested area of 1.2 cm ×1.7 cm to 3.2 cm × 3.6 cm,the wrist or distal medial arm full thickness skin graft donor site.Evaluation of sensory recovery by the British Medical Research Association.Results All flaps survived.Twelve finger flap tension blisters,and the flaps survived after the stitches.Follow-up of 60 cases of 60 to hand function according to the Chinese medicine will hand surgery society of upper extremity function evaluation standard trial Tam method to evaluate the:50 excellent,10 fingers good,the excellent and good rate was 100％;48 fingers flap sensation recovery to S4 class,and 12 refers to the recovery to S3.The two-point discrimination perception of 5 to 8 mm,average 6.5 mm;patients far,nearly interphalangeal joint average activity recovery was good.Skin flap skin ruddy,soft texture,no fat,no pigmentation,fearless cold performance.No scar hypertrophy and contracture,skin pain no allergy and reoperation.Conclusion The flap for repair of distal finger skin defect is a simple,no damage to the main artery and nerve and good sensory recovery,less postoperative complications,and excellent method of flap survival.It is worth promotion in primary hospitals.
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Objective To investigate the clinical outcomes of using modified antegrade digital artery island flap for the treatment of the severely flexion contracture of the burned finger.Methods Between August,2013 to August,2015,21 patients (21 fingers) with severely flexion contracture of the burned finger were hospitalized for treatment.According to the Stren classification standard for the interphalangeal joint flexion contracture,all the patients were rated as type Ⅲ.The volar soft-tissue defect with exposed tendons,nerves,vessels or bone ranged from 1.0 cm × 2.0 cm to 2.5 cm × 4.0 cm after scar relaxation.The artery and the nerve defect were 1.5 to 4.5 cm and 2.0 to 4.2 cm,respectively.The wound were reconstructed with the modified antegrade digital artery island flap.The dorsal branches of the proper digital nerve of the flap were anastomosised with the proper digital nerve of the wound.The flap donor site was resurfaced with full-thickness skin grafting from inner aspect of the forearm.All the cases were called back for postoperative follow-up.Results All the reconstructed fingers and flaps survived completely without vascular problems.The donor skin graft survived and wound healed by first intention.All the patients were followed up with 11.5 months (range,6-22 months).The finger appearance was satisfactory.The texture and color of flaps in all cases were good.There was no pigmentation and contraction relapse.The contracted fingers received no cold intolerance.At the final examination,the average values of static 2-point discrimination were 5.2 mm (range,4.3-6.5 mm) of the flap.In the series,based on the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire,18 patients were strongly satisfied with the injured finger appearance and 3 patients satisfied with the appearance.Conclusion The modified antegrade digital artery island flap,which is easy to raise with large flap size and can result with the good finger appearance and function,is an ideal technique for reconstruction of the severe flexion contracture of the burned finger.
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Because of extensive vascular injury, reconstruction of ring avulsion injury is classically believed to be challenging for a hand surgeon. We report a case of ring avulsion injury treated by debridement of the damaged artery and interpositioning vessel graft with a healthy proper palmar digital artery, which lead to successful functional recovery.
Subject(s)
Arteries , Debridement , Glycosaminoglycans , Hand , Transplants , Vascular System InjuriesABSTRACT
Objective To seek new skin flap donor sites beyond face to repair deformity of nose. Methods Seven patients underwent reconstruction of nasal tips and columellae with dorsal forefinger sk in flap based on proper palmar digital artery and reverse forearm skin flap base d on tiny cutaneous branches of radial artery. Results Al l flaps survived. Similar external appearance in color and texture compared with adjacent normal skin was achieved for 1～4 years follow-up. Conclus i on Remarkable advantage without second deformity in face is archeive d due to contribution of skin flap. These two methods of correction can be more acceptible by patients than usual ones.