Reconstruction of extensive pulp defects of the thumb with a radial-based pedicled flap from the index finger

Abstract

This article defines a sensate, pedicled heterodigital flap from the proximal radial side of the index finger for reconstructing large soft tissue defects of the thumb. The pedicle consists of the radial digital artery of the index finger. Dorsal sensory branch of proper digital nerve and one of the terminal sensory branches of radial nerve are included in the flap for sensation. The results of 17 consecutive patients at 24 months revealed mean static two-point discrimination of 7 mm at the reconstruction site and 10 patients were able to feel 4 mm at the reconstructed thumb. The mean range of motion of metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of operated thumbs reached 94% and 66%, the mean grip span reached 96% compared with the uninjured side. The presented flap provided a simple yet favourable alternative for reconstruction of the thumb tip, with thick and durable tissue requiring minimum dissection and donor side morbidity. Level of evidence: IV