Free transfer of the flap based on the ascending branch of ulnar artery above-wrist cutaneous branch for coverage of finger soft tissue defect

Objective To introduce a novel method of repairing soft tissue defect of the fingers by free transfer of the flap based on the ascending branch of ulnar artery above-wrist cutaneous branch and evaluate its results. Methods From December 2007 to June 2008, nine patients with soft tissue defect of the fingers were treated with the above-mentioned flap. The area of the flaps were 4cm×2cm to7cm×3 cm. In two cases a portion of the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon was included in the flap. All 9 flaps were pedicled on the ascending branch of ulnar artery above-wrist cutaneous branch and vessel anastomosis was done in an end-to-end fashion. Results All the flaps survived. Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 12 months. The appearance and texture of the flaps were good. Flap sensation recovered to S_3 or higher. Conclusion The ascending branch of ulnar artery above-wrist cutaneous branch has consistent anatomy. The flap based on this branch is thin and easy to harvest. It is a good method to repair small to medium size soft tissue defect of the fingers. Key words: Surgical flaps;  Finger injuries;  Microsurgery