Reconstruction of large area defect of the nail bed by cross finger fascial flap combined with split-thickness toe nail bed graft: A new surgical method

Fingertip injury commonly results in avulsion of the nail bed. For large area defects of the nail bed with distal phalanx exposure, methods for reconstruction of soft tissue defects are scarcely mentioned in the literature. From May 2014 to January 2016, 6 patients with large area defects of the nail bed with distal phalanx exposure were enrolled. A new surgical method, cross finger fascial flap combined with thin split-thickness toe nail bed graft, was applied in all patients. All the 6 patients were followed-up at least 3 months. Good blood supply and no infections were observed. The lengths of the thumb or fingers were preserved. Acceptable appearance and nail bed growth were noted. The donor sites showed no dysfunction or deformity. Cross finger fascial flap combined with thin split-thickness toe nail bed graft is a new and rewarding surgical method to reconstruct large area defect of the nail bed with distal phalanx exposure.