Reconstruction of a Neurocutaneous Defect of the Proximal Phalanx With a Heterodigital Arterialized Nerve Pedicle Flap

Complex digital injuries involving soft tissue loss and digital nerve defect pose challenging problems for hand surgeons. This study uses the heterodigital arterialized nerve pedicle flap including the dorsal branch of the digital nerve for reconstructing a digital neurocutaneous defect of the proximal phalanx.

Inclusion Criteria:

• a neurocutaneous defect at the proximal phalanx
• a soft tissue defect on the volar, dorsal, and contiguous lateral aspects of adjacent fingers .associated digital nerve defect.

Exclusion Criteria:

• an injury involving the course of the arterial or venous pedicle; an injury involving donor site or donor nerve
• a soft tissue defect on the noncontiguous lateral aspects of adjacent fingers
• a nerve injury that is able to be repaired by primary neurorrhaphy