Fingertip coverage with uni-pedicled volar rotational advancement flap with large Z-plasty: a report on 112 cases

Background: Simple and safe fingertip reconstruction methods involve the use of local neurovascular islands flaps that can preserve functional length and sensitivity, and reconstruction with skin of the same texture. However, techniques involving flaps have numerous drawbacks and do not satisfy all the requirements for fingertip reconstruction. A particular problem is the persistence of contracture deformity due to lack of full flap advancement. We present a new technique using uni-pedicled volar rotational advancement flap with large Z-plasty, and describe the results of long-term follow-up.

Methods: From October 1993 to December 2009, 112 fingers of 98 patients were covered with uni-pedicled volar rotational advancement flap with large Z-plasty after sustaining various types of injuries or finger pulp avulsion. A longitudinal incision was made along the lateral border of the digit and a large neurovascular volar flap was elevated just above the pulleys and flexor tendon sheath. To release tension, a large Z-plasty was applied at the metacarpophalangeal joint or interphalangeal joint crease. The final patient outcomes were reviewed retrospectively.

Results: All fingertip injuries were treated without flap necrosis. Partial wound dehiscence was observed in two patients and average static two-point discrimination was 5.2 mm. There were no postoperative contracture deformities, joint stiffness, paresthesia, or hypersensitivity. Most patients were left with acceptable scarring and were free of postoperative pain and cold intolerance during the long-term follow-up.

Conclusions: Our novel technique provides durable, completely sensate, and well-vascularized coverage of the fingertip with minimal discomfort to patients.