Homodigital Neurovascular Island Flaps with “Direct Flow” Vascularization

Abstract

Pulp loss of the fingers is frequently observed. When local advancement flaps are not sufficient to repair the defect, the homodigital monopedicled island flaps with "direct flow" are a simple and current reconstructive solution. Between 1991 and 1995, 32 homodigital neurovascular direct flow island flaps were performed for fingertip defects. We used a modified triangular Venkataswami flap for oblique amputations (26 patients) and the Mouchet-Gilbert island flap for tangential defects (6 patients). Our results (with excellent skin quality and good sensory recovery) lead us to consider these flaps as the first-choice reconstructive solution in patients with extensive but not complete pulp defects (< 2 cm) of the fingers.