Reconstruction of Soft Tissue Defect of the Finger with Second Dorsal Metatarsal Arterial Flap

To cover a large soft tissue defect of the finger, we have successfully applied free flaps using second dorsal metatarsal artery in 2 patients and obtained satisfactory results. It can be used to reconstruct the defect located from the proximal phalanx to the fingertip of all fingers as a new indication. The procedure is a time-saving, one stage operation. It also causes no disfigurement and no functional loss of the involved digit. Our clinical experience showed favorable results. Second dorsal metatarsal artery free flap is an alternative method to reconstruct a soft tissue defect of the finger with one-stage operation. This flap with its lengthy pedicle provides enough tissue padding. In the meantime, the vascular anatomy of the second dorsal metatarsal artery has to be investigated with regard to its general distribution and variation.ope