Abstract:

Objective　To study the vascularized territory of the dorsalis pedis flap pedicled with the first dorsal metatarsal artery in anatomy by infusing ink in the amputated foot specimens, providng anatomical evidence for second toe transfer with the dorsalis pedis flap.　Method　After separating the ten feet from the newly dead adults, ink was injected into the feet through the first dorsal metatarsal artery to measure the dosral area being dyed.. Furthermore, dorsalis pedis flaps were elevated to observe and measure the area of the subdermal vascular plexus being dyed. We take another three feet and pour the green ethylene perchloride into the first dorsal metatarsal artery and corrode the foot with the solution of the sodium hydroxide. Then we get the casting mould.　Result　(1) Ink dyeing: The dyeing scope of the ten specimens: The medial boundary line of the flap is the tibial border of the big toe. The lateral boundary of the flap is the territory of the third toe web. The distal boundary line of the flap can reach the first to the third toe. The proximal boundary line of the flap is the proximal part of the tarsometatarsal joints. (2) Cast mould specimen: the first and the second toe is dyed evidently. We can see small subcutaneous branches from the first to the second toe.　Conclusion　Blood supply of the tibial part of the flap is good. The reliable fibular boundary line of the flap is the third toe web. When we design the dorsalis pedis flap , we should design the flap towards the tibial side for enough blood supply.

Key words: Dorsalis pedis flap, First dorsal metatarsal artery, Toe-hand transfer, Anatomy