title: Delayed primary reconstruction of subtotal nail bed loss using a split-thickness nail bed graft on decorticated bone.
abstract: Split-thickness nail bed grafting is the accepted method of treatment for injuries involving loss of nail bed tissue. The nail bed of the great toe may be used without donor-site morbidity, and nail bed grafting may be combined with other procedures for fingertip reconstruction. A case of fingertip avulsion injury with loss of the nail plate, nail bed, and periosteum over the exposed distal phalanx of the thumb was reconstructed by a split-thickness nail bed graft placed directly on granulating decorticated bone. The length, appearance, and function of the injured dominant thumb were preserved.
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C.
authors.forename: H M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Matsuba
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Spear
mesh_terms: D000062:Accidents, Occupational; D000328:Adult; D006214:Hallux; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009262:Nails / Q000637:transplantation*; D013518:Surgery, Plastic / Q000379:methods; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013933:Thumb / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D013997:Time Factors