Two Case Reports : Dorsal Metacarpal Flap with EIP

Abstract

Defects of finger dorsal skin often include defects of the extensor tendon, and adhesion is a severe problem during reconstruction.
We consider vascularized tendons able to reduce adhesion and improve the recovery of motor function. Therefore, we reconstructed defects of finger dorsal skin and the extensor tendon using dorsal metacarpal flaps with extensor indicis proprius (EIP).
We report two cases of dorsal metacarpal flaps with EIP for defects of finger dorsal skin and the extensor tendon. The clinical course and findings are presented. In one case, the patient was a 31-year-old male who had right index finger injuries. In the other case, the patient was a 72-year-old male who had right middle finger injuries and infection. All of the flaps survived completely and recovery of motor function was satisfactory in both cases.
We conclude that the dorsal metacarpal flap with EIP is useful for patients with defects of finger dorsal skin and the extensor tendon.