Reverse digital artery cross-finger flap for reconstruction of failed finger replantation

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to describe the reverse digital artery cross-finger flap (RDAC flap) in the treatment of failed finger replantation. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent modified RDAC flap reconstructions for failed finger replantation and assessed their outcomes. Of the patients who underwent soft tissue reconstructions for finger injuries between March 2011 and February 2015, we enrolled 11 patients in whom RDAC flap reconstruction procedures were performed to treat the failed replantations. Results: The flaps survived in all cases, with a mean static, two-point discrimination value of 5.3 mm (range, 4–7 mm) in the healed flaps. The sizes of the flaps ranged from 2 × 1 cm 2 to 2.3 × 1.5 cm 2 . Conclusion: The RDAC flap was introduced by Lai et al., and it is a mixed form with the advantages of both cross-finger flap and heterodigital island flap. Our results suggest that it could provide reliable coverage of the sensate soft tissue of fingers with failed replantation.