Reconstruction of pulp defect with the free tibial flap of the second toe

Objective To observe and study clinical efficacy of restruction of finger pulp using tibial flap. Methods From January 2009 to October 2013, we reconstructed the 20 finger pulps with free tibial flap of the second toe. Results 20 flaps survived completely and were followed up for 6 months to 2 years, with an average of 1 year. There were no obvious scars in the reconstructive finger pulps. And the reconstructed finger pulps all had good appearance, texture, a fingerprint point discrimination at 6-8 mm, and finger function recovered well. Conclusions The shape of finger pulp after reconstuction with the free tibial flap of the second toe has the similar appearance to the normal finger pulp and a good sensory function, which is one of the best ways to reconstruct the finger pulp defects. Key words: Finger; Toe; Surgical flaps