Distally based cross-finger flaps for amputation stumps in avulsion amputations

BACKGROUND: Though advances in microsurgery have resulted in better survival rates of replants, replanting crushed and avulsed digits are difficult. If replantation is not possible these digits need local tissue cover to retain length. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty seven patients underwent distally based cross finger flaps for coverage of exposed vital structures over the amputation stumps. RESULTS: All the flaps survived well. They provide good quality thin pliable tissue over the fingertips and help in achieving near normal range of movements in injured digits. CONCLUSION: Distally based cross finger flap gives tissues of right dimensions, at the most desired site, making reconstruction of these difficult problems quiet easy.