[Defect coverage and reconstruction of thumb sensibility with the first dorsal metacarpal artery flap].
BACKGROUND
The "Foucher" flap is a pedicled neurovascular island flap of the first dorsal metacarpal artery.


METHODS
From 1992 to 2000, thirty-three neurocutaneous island flaps from the dorsal aspect of the index finger (FDMCA flap) were performed for defect coverage and reconstruction of sensibility in the thumb.


RESULTS
Static 2-PD over the flap area averaged 10.8 mm (range 4-15), compared to 8.2 mm (4-15) over the dorsal aspect of the contralateral index finger. Response to the SW monofilaments showed no difference to normal skin or only diminished light touch in 76% (19/25) patients. Seventy-six percent (19/25) were able to return to their previous jobs or resume previous activities.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on negligible donor site morbidity of the flap and the good sensate quality and aesthetic appearance, the Foucher flap has become our first choice in defect coverage and restoration of sensibility of the thumb.
Tränkle
M
M
Klinik für Plastische, Asthetische und Handchirurgie, Zentrum für Schwerbrandverletzte, Klinikum Offenbach, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Johann Wolfgang Goethe Universität Frankfurt, Offenbach. mtraenkle@yahoo.com
Germann
G
G
Heitmann
C
C
Sauerbier
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D004954:Esthetics; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013933:Thumb / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome