Reconstruction of the transverse and dorsal-oblique amputations of the distal thumb with volar cross-finger flap using the index finger

Abstract

We performed a retrospective review of 12 patients with dorsal oblique and transverse amputations of the distal thumb who were treated with a volar cross-finger flap from the index finger. The mean patient follow-up period was 28 months postoperatively (range: 19–43 months). There were no instances of flap loss, infection, or donor site complication in our series. The mean Semmes–Weinstein monofilament testing scores on the injured thumb and the donor site were 0.65 g (range: 0.16–2 g) and 0.51 g (range: 0.16–1 g), respectively. The mean 2-point discrimination testing scores on the injured thumb and the donor site were 4.5 mm (range: 3–8 mm) and 4.3 mm (range: 3–7 mm), respectively. This study suggests that the volar cross-finger flap using the index finger is a reliable technique in repairing dorsal oblique and transverse amputations of the distal thumb.

Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic IV