Use of a Fascial Reverse Dorso-Ulnar Metacarpal Bone Flap for Non-union of the Distal Phalanx of the Thumb: A Case Report

J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2022 Oct;27(5):902-906. doi: 10.1142/S2424835522720432. Epub 2022 Sep 28.

Abstract

Reports describing the treatment of non-union of the distal phalanx of the thumb are limited. We present the case of a 45-year-old man who developed a symptomatic non-union after an open fracture of the distal phalanx of the thumb. He was treated with a reverse dorso-ulnar vascularised fascial metacarpal bone flap. Bone union was achieved 3 months post surgery, and he was well at 7 months post surgery. The reverse dorso-ulnar fascial metacarpal bone flap is an alternative to consider in patients with non-union of the distal phalanx of the thumb. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

Keywords: Distal phalanx; Dorso-ulnar fascial bone flap; Non-union; Thumb; Vascularised bone flap.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Finger Phalanges*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Metacarpal Bones* / diagnostic imaging
  • Metacarpal Bones* / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Thumb / surgery
  • Ulnar Artery