Outcomes of bipedicle V-Y ‘cup’ flap for repair of volar oblique fingertip amputations

Abstract

We used bipedicle V-Y ‘cup’ flaps to reconstruct 13 consecutive volar oblique fingertip amputations encountered in a nearly 2-year period. All flaps survived completely with no bone protuberance, scarring or neuroma evident at the end of follow-up (mean, 7 months; range 4–13 months). Two of the 13 patients had moderate or severe tenderness, three had moderate or severe cold intolerance and two had noticeable hook nails. There were no significant (≥10°) flexion contracture in the interphalangeal joints. The mean static two-point discrimination score was 4 mm (range 3–6) and the modal Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test score was 3.6 g (range 3.2–4.2). All patients were satisfied with their surgical outcomes. The bipedicle V-Y ‘cup’ flap provides good results in terms of fingertip contour, padding and sensation, and has a low complication rate when used to treat volar oblique fingertip amputations. Level of evidence: IV