Clinical efficacy of dorsal digital nerve fasciocutaneous pedicle flap with superficial vein anastomosis in repair of the type III and type IV of fingertip defects

Objective To analysis the clinical efficacy of dorsal digital nerves fasciocutaneous pedicle flap (DDNFPF) with superficial vein anastomosis in the treatment of the type III and type IV of fingertip defect, and the relationship between the incidence of vein crisis and superficial vein anastomosis. Methods A total of 85 patients with 92 fingers, treated by DDNFPF from February, 2017 to December, 2018, were retrospectively analyzed. The superficial veins of 30 patients with 32 fingers were anastomosed, and 55 patients with 60 fingers were not. The difference of the superior rate and the incidence of venous crisis between superficial vein anastomosis and non-superficial vein anastomosis was compared by Chi-square test. The difference was considered as statistically significant when P<0.05. The regular postoperative followed-up was performed. Results The average followed-up time was (7.0±2.9) months. The incidence of venous crisis in anastomosis group (1/32) was lower than that in non-anastomosis group (13/60). The difference was statistically significant (χ2=4.217, P 0.05) . The repaired fingertips of the 2 groups were in good appearance, wear-resistant, stable holders and two-point discrimination was 5 to 8 mm. Conclusion DDNFPF for the type III and IV type of fingertip defect is safe and effective. A anastomosis of superficial veins in recipient area can significantly reduce the incidence of venous crisis. Key words: Dorsal digital nerve fasciocutaneous pedicle flap; Fingertip defects; Superficial vein anastomosis; Venous crisis