Hook nail deformity correction by the combination of the antenna procedure and reverse-flow homodigital island flap: Description of clinical cases

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Hook nail deformity is one of the widespread post-traumatic deformities of distal phalanges. The affected finger has decreased function and loses its characteristic appearance. Onlyafew publications explored this problem in children. In this study, we presentasurgical correction technique for this deformity by the combination of two existing reconstructive methods, i.e., the antenna procedure and the reverse-flow homodigital island flap. CLINICAL CASES:Aseries of clinical cases of patients aged 3, 5, and 17 years who underwent hook nail deformity correction was analyzed. These children underwent the combination of the antenna procedure and reverse-flow homodigital island flap. In all three cases, the deformities were corrected, andanacceptable appearance, and function of the fingers were achieved. DISCUSSION:Various methods of hook nail deformity correction have proven themselves and affirmed by literature data. The method described herein may be considered reliable, as demonstrated by the clinical cases. CONCLUSIONS:We consider the combination of the antenna procedure and reverse-flow homodigital island flap asajustified method. However, issues raised in this technique require further investigation.