Double V-Y Flap to Cover the Fingertip Injury: New Technique and Cases

Abstract

The volar V-Y flap is used in transverse or dorsal oblique amputations in fingertip injuries; however, its use is contraindicated in patients with volar oblique amputations and cannot advance distally enough to cover the defect. The aim of this report is to describe a technique of double V-Y flap to cover fingertip defects in which a simple V-Y flap is not enough. This technique allows advancement between 30% and 50% farther than the original, simple V-Y flap. Report of cases a series of fingertip amputation covered with this technique. This technique was performed in 7 patients between 25 and 64 years old, with transverse, volar and dorsal oblique defects in the fingertip. The advancing of the flap was between 3 and 5 mm. There were no infections or necrosis of the flaps. In all patients there were acceptable aesthetic results with 2-point discrimination between 4 and 6 mm in the proximal flap and up to 10 mm in the distal flap with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. With this double V-Y flap, we have seen a good coverage even in volar oblique amputation. In addition, it is possible to advance up to 5 mm more with this second V-Y flap without compromising the vitality of the flap. It is a simple and reproducible technique that can be used on any finger, with good results, without flap necrosis.