[Clinical application of the first metacarpal fasciocutaneous flap].

OBJECTIVE

To report the application of the first metacarpal fasciocutaneous flap in repairing digital soft tissue defects.

METHODS

The first metacarpal fasciocutaneous flap was designed to repair the lesions of the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers in 14 cases. The blood supply of the flap originates from the branches of the radial pollicis artery at the metacarpophalangeal joint and the venous drainage is to the cephalic vein through the deep pollicis vein and dorsal pollicis vein.

RESULTS

All the flaps survived successfully except that one survived partly, two had cyanosis and blister. Followed-up for 3 to 12 months showed the flaps had sensation with good texture and thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

The first metacarpal fasciocutaneous flap can be used to repair the lesions of the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers. It has following advantages: 1. reliable blood supply; 2. convenient dissection and 3. less damage of the donor site.