Refinements in dorsoulnar flap of the thumb: 15 cases.

PURPOSE: We report 2 modifications of the classic Brunelli flap to avoid vascular compromise and first web contracture, common when using medium or large flaps.

METHODS

We treated 15 patients with posttraumatic loss of palmar surface and distal amputation of the thumb, with dorsoulnar flap associated with 2 refinements. The first technical tip was an adipofascial extension proximal in the flap aimed to decrease the morbidity of the donor site without changing the potential covering of the flap. The second was always to graft the pedicle of the flap, avoid vascular compression problems, and moreover, to use the pedicle to cover the traumatic area. All ulnar dorsal digital nerves of the flaps were reconnected to one of the volar digital nerves. The minimum patient follow-up was 12 months.

RESULTS

All flaps achieved primary healing without major complications. There were no donor site problems. Cosmetic debulking of the flap over the pedicle has not been required.

CONCLUSIONS

The Brunelli flap is a good technique to cover small and moderate defects of the thumb, although the drawback of this procedure is the lack of sensory recovery. The refinements of this series can help to improve the use of this flap and avoid complications in the donor site.