Sensory reconstruction of the finger pulp is a challenging problem. This article reports repair of the finger pulp defect using the dorsal digital island flap. Both dorsal branches of the proper digital nerves (PDNs) were used for maximal sensory restoration.
From February 2008 to May 2009, the flap harvested from the dorsum of the middle phalanx of the same finger was used in 12 fingers in 12 patients. The flaps ranged in size from 2.0 × 2.0 cm to 2.8 × 2.2 cm. The mean pedicle length was 1.2 cm. Neurorrhaphy between the dorsal branches of the PDN and PDN was performed in both sides in all cases. Sensibility of the reconstructed finger pulp was evaluated by static 2-point discrimination (2PD) and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test. The range of motion of the donor fingers was measured. The data were compared to those of the opposite sides.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
12
This article reports repair of the finger pulp defect using the dorsal digital island flap. Both dorsal branches of the proper digital nerves (PDNs) were used for maximal sensory restoration.
static 2-point discrimination test
The patients were assessed at follow-up by an independent senior surgeon who did not attend the treatments. Evaluation included active range of motion (ROM) of the DIP and proximal interphalangeal (PIP ) joints, and static 2-point discrimination (2PD) and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test of the reconstructed finger pulps. These measurements were compared with those on the contralateral site. According to the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), patients reported their satisfaction with the appearance of the injured hand. The questions based on a 5-point response scale.
Time frame: Patients were followed for 16-23 months (mean, 19 months)
Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test
The patients were assessed at follow-up by an independent senior surgeon who did not attend the treatments. Evaluation included active range of motion (ROM) of the DIP and proximal interphalangeal (PIP ) joints, and static 2-point discrimination (2PD) and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test of the reconstructed finger pulps. These measurements were compared with those on the contralateral site.
Time frame: Patients were followed for 16-23 months (mean, 19 months)
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