Abstract:

Objective　To investigate blood supply features of the flap based on the dorsal branch of the digital artery and summarize clinical experience.　Methods　5 fresh adult upper limb specimens were injected with red latex via artery and were dissected. The origin outer diameter, the course and anastomosis of the dorsal branch of the digital artery were measured and observed. Distribution features of dorsal branch of the digital artery was further explored on X-ray images collected from one fresh adult upper limb specimen injected with lead oxide. Free flaps of dorsal branch of the digital artery were used to repair soft tissue defects of finger pulp (6 fingers of 6 patients).　Results　The origin of the dorsal branch of the digital artery was relatively constant, and respectively located at the middle of proximal phalanx, the middle distal 1/3 of proximal phalanx, the middle of second phalanx and the distal of interphalangeal joints. Among them, the origin branch in the middle distal 1/3 of proximal phalanx was constant, with the outer diameter of 0.2mm. 6 to 18 months' follow-up proved that, 6 flaps survived well, with good blood supply, texture, flexibility and appearance. The sensory recovery reached S3 level.　Conclusions　The dorsal branch of the digital artery is less variant. It is an ideal selection for prepare free flaps to repair soft tissue defect of finger pulp.

Key words:  The digital artery, Dorsal branch, Surgical flap, Repair and reconstruction surgery