Reconstruction of contracture of the first web space with snuff-box flap

Objective To summarize and investigate the therapeutic effects of reconstruction of contracture of the first web space with snuff-box flap. Methods Eighteen patients with contracture of the first web space were treated by snuff-box flap. The width and the angle of the first web space was 19 mm and 20°on average. According to the first web space skin defects, the flap designed to nasopharyngeal fossa centers as rotation point, the radial line when the forearm in the neutral position as the axis. Results The followedup for 5-26 months revealed that 17 flaps had a success, but 1 case was partly necrosis. The width of the first web space was augmented by an aveage of 45 mm, the angle of the first web space was augmented by an average of 50°. Conclusion It is ralatively simple and reliable to repair the contracture of the first web space using the snuff-box flap. Key words: Contracture of the first web space; Flap; Snuff-box; Microsurgical operation