Local or distal flap in the management of digital trauma in children

Abstract

Objectives: We aim to describe the management of fingertip injuries treated by flaps in the paediatric surgery emergency ward and evaluate the long-term results. Patients and Methods: Through a 2-year prospective study, we analysed all fingertip injuries treated by flaps in the paediatric emergency ward. We collected patients' data and the clinical and imaging characteristics of the lesions. The type of flap was chosen on a case-by-case basis. We evaluated aesthetic and functional results. Results: Forty-two fingertip injuries required the use of flaps. The average age was 7 years, and boys were more affected. The smashed fingertip was the most common mechanism; pulp lesions and amputation were located mainly in zone I or II. We performed Atasoy flaps, palm flap, free skin grafts, McGregor flap and the cross finger flap. Our results were good to excellent in 66.67%. Conclusions: The best management of fingertip injuries in children remains prevention.

Keywords

• children
• distal flaps
• fingertip trauma
• local flaps