Abstract
We retrospectively evaluated patients who received reverse digital artery island flaps for fingertip injuries. The study included 13 patients ( 12 males and 1 female ) and 14 fingers. We reviewed postoperative evaluations of the range of motion of the proximal interphalangeal ( PIP ) joint. Mean active flexion and extension of the PIP joint were 97.9° and −5.0° degrees, respectively; this was considered a relatively satisfactory outcome. However, six fingers ( 43% ) had flexion contracture ( extension < 0°). Conversely, the flexion of the PIP joint seen in the flexion contracture group tended to be better than that of the non-flexion contracture group. Dermatogenic contracture was not observed, and there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups with respect to age, flap size, incidence of each finger, and preoperative waiting period. This study focused on surgical technique and postoperative therapy, which currently affects outcomes significantly. Patients must also be educated regarding the importance of postsurgical extension exercises. In addition, we must be alert for early extensive restriction, and intervention with rehabilitation and splinting must be performed.
