Innervated Digital Artery Perforator Flap: A Versatile Technique for Fingertip Reconstruction.

PURPOSE

To demonstrate the advanced use of innervated digital artery perforator (IDAP) flaps for fingertip reconstruction.

METHODS

From August 2011 to May 2014, 65 fingers (59 patients) underwent fingertip or finger stump reconstruction using IDAP flaps. Sixty-one fingers from 55 patients who were followed up for more than 6 months were included in this study. The objective outcomes of patient evaluations consisted of the results of static 2-point discrimination tests, Semmes Weinstein monofilament tests, and extension loss tests. The subjective patient outcome evaluations consisted of the results of hypersensitivity and cold intolerance tests and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

All flaps survived completely, and no patients required early secondary interventions. The mean follow-up period was 18 months (range, 6-36 months). The static 2-point discrimination in the flaps ranged from 2 to 6 mm (mean, 3.5 mm) compared with a range of 2 to 3 mm (mean, 2.5 mm) in the contralateral hands. The Semmes Weinstein monofilament test results ranged from 0.07 to 1.4 g compared with 0.04 to 0.4 g for the contralateral hand. One patient exhibited mild extension loss in the reconstructed finger, 4 patients experienced mild cold intolerance, and 2 patients exhibited mild hypersensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

The IDAP flaps are sensitive, reliable, and versatile and should be considered for reconstructing acute fingertip defects. The use of IDAP flaps for revisions of previously reconstructed defects is also possible.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.