Use of homodigital reverse island flaps for digital reconstruction – the perspective of a reconstructive surgery unit in Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: Several Local flaps can be used for the reconstruction of digital soft tissue defects with exposure of tendons and/or phalanges. The homodigital flap is a versatile option. This article discusses the use of the homodigital reverse vascular island flap-a regional, axial-patterned skin flap in the reconstruction of distal digital defects.Methods: 6patients with a soft-tissue defect at the distal part of the finger were treated by homodigital island flaps for reconstruction. We evaluated the active range of motion of the involved finger, and the patient's satisfaction with the appearance of the finger after reconstruction.Results: All patients admitted to a good functional outcome. The donor site morbidity was minimal. The take of the split-thickness skin graft to the flap donor site was generally good. However one patient complained of numbness of the finger over the donor site. Conclusion:The Homodigital flap is a handy multipurpose flap that can be used. Notwithstanding its limitation, it is easy to raise and it can be used to a variety of defects.