Thinned chimeric radial collateral artery perforator flap in complex distal thumb reconstruction

Tissue loss accompanied by bone defects in the thumb is a challenging reconstruction problem. Traditional repair methods are unsatisfactory. Microsurgical thumb reconstruction was performed using 13 thinned chimeric radial collateral artery (RCA) perforator flaps. The flap was created with a thinned skin paddle and humeral bone segments using independent perforators. Primary defatting was completed when the thickness of the perforator entry was approximately similar to that in the periphery. The posterior cutaneous nerve of the arm was carried to make a sensory flap. Defects were 8.5 x 4.5 cm(2) on average (ranging in size from 4.5 x 1.5 to 15.0 x 6.0 cm(2)), and flap size was 9.0 x 5.5 cm(2) on average (ranging in size from 5.0 x 2.0 to 16.0 x 7.0 cm(2)), whereas the humeral fragments were 2.0 x 1.0 cm(2) on average (ranging in size from 1.5 x 0.5 to 4.0 x 1.5 cm(2)). All data were expressed as mean +/- A SD. The cosmetic appearance of the donor and recipient sites, Kapandji opposition score and static two-point discrimination of the operated thumb were evaluated during a follow-up visit. Follow-up time was 16.6 months (ranging from 14 to 28 months). Flap thickness before defatting, measured immediately after flap elevation was 14.5 mm (ranging from 10.0 to 25.0 mm). Average flap thickness after defatting was 3.5 mm (ranging from 3.0 to 6.0 mm). Venous congestion occurred in two cases. Successful microsurgical revision was achieved in both cases. All flaps survived. Bone components achieved union in all cases at an average period of 4.8 months (ranging from 3 to 6 months). Based on Kapandji opposition score, the mean thumb opposition score was 6. The mean sensation of flap was 7.5 mm (ranging from 6 to 11 mm). No further flap revision or defatting procedures were required in all cases. Cosmetically acceptable results were achieved for all patients. Findings proved that thinned chimeric RCA perforator flap is a beneficial microsurgical alternative for reconstructing complex bone and soft tissue defects in thumb.