OBJECTIVETo investigate the therapeutic effect of digital dorsal flap based on vascular network for skin defects at fingers.

METHODSFrom August 2005 to August 2010, 49 cases with 61 skin defects at fingers were treated with the digital dorsal flaps, including 19 at the index fingers, 19 at the middle fingers, 16 at the ring fingers and 3 at the little fingers. The defects were 42 at the distal end, 12 at the middle segment and 7 at the proximal segment. The flaps size ranged from 27 mm x 20 mm to 10 mm x 8 mm.

RESULTS61 flaps in 49 cases survived completely. 52 fingers were followed up for 6-22 months. The aesthetic and functional results were both satisfactory. The flaps sensation was graded as S3, with a discrimination distance of 6-9 mm (median, 7.6 mm). No complication happened in donor sites.

CONCLUSIONSThe digital dorsal flap based on vascular network has reliable blood supply with less morbidity to the main artery. It is safe and easily performed with good effect for skin defect at finger.