Purpose: To investigate the results of resurfacing completely degloved digits using a parallelogram free flap from the medial arm in a spiral fashion.
Methods: We reviewed the reconstruction of 26 digits in 21 patients with a parallelogram free flap from the medial arm in a spiral fashion following a non-replantable degloving injury.
Results: The sizable perforator was observed consistently in the medial arm with 13 of 21 (62%) originating from the superior ulnar collateral artery, 6 of 21 (29%) directly from the brachial artery, and 2 of 21 (9%) from the superficial brachial artery. All the flaps but one, which sustained partial flap loss, survived uneventfully. Total active motion ranged from 93° to 145° and 112° to 154° in the cases with and without metacarpophalangeal joint involvement, respectively. The static 2-point discrimination test varied from 6 to 13 mm. No scar contracture was recorded in these patients. All the patients were satisfied with the overall results.
Conclusions: Resurfacing the defect in a spiral fashion is a valuable and reliable technique for the reconstruction of complete finger degloving injuries. The medial arm flap is a good candidate for this procedure, with satisfactory functional recovery and good aesthetic restoration.
Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic IV.
Copyright © 2012 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.