Application of finger lateral local flaps for repair of dorsal skin defect of fingers

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of finger lateral local flaps in repairing dorsal skin defect of proximal and middle segments of fingers. Methods From July 2017 to July 2018, 17 cases of dorsal skin defect of proximal and middle segments of fingers were treated by transfer of finger lateral local flaps, including 6 cases of dorsal proximal segment and 11 cases of dorsal middle segment. The size of the flaps ranged from 1.0 cm×1.5 cm to 1.5 cm×3.5 cm. Full thickness skin grafts were used to repair the donor sites. Results The follow-up time ranged from 3 to 12 months, with an average of 4 months. All the flaps survived. All the incisions achieved primary healing. The appearance and texture of the flaps were good. According to the upper extremity functional evaluation criteria issued by the Hand Society of the Chinese Medical Association, the results were excellent in 11 cases, good in 4 cases and fair in 2 cases. Conclusion The transfer of finger lateral local flaps is simple to operate and has satisfactory clinical efficacy. It is safe and reliable to repair the dorsal skin defect of the finger. Key words: Finger injuries; Surgical flaps; Skin defects