Abstract
Purpose
The study aimed to evaluate the functional outcome of distal thumb amputations (Allen's type 3, 4) that were not replantable when treated with a dorsoulnar flap.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted in 15 patients who underwent dorsoulnar flap for Allen's type 3 and 4 thumb amputations in a single hand surgery center. The patient demographics, level of injury, complications, and functional outcomes were analyzed. Functional outcome was assessed using the Fingertip Injuries Outcome Score (FIOS).
Results
The mean age was 26 years (range 19–35 years). The most common mechanism of injury was motorcycle spokes wheel injury (n = 9), followed by road traffic injury, door crush, and fall. The FIOS was good in 13 patients and fair in 2 patients. The complications included hairy skin (n = 3), absent nails (n = 4), and cold intolerance (n = 2).
Conclusions
Our study suggests that the dorsoulnar flap is a simple and reliable reconstructive option for severe crush injuries resulting in Allen type 3 and 4 thumb amputations, with the potential to achieve good functional outcomes.
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References
Supplementary Material
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