ABSTRACTreconstruction of the distal foot, especially of the toe has always been a challenging problem. various methods have been tried with variable success rates and limitations. presented here is a series of four cases, where distally based flaps were used. two of them were extensor digitorum brevis (edb) muscle flaps and the other two were first dorsal metatarsal artery (fdma) based skin flaps. one in each of the two was augmented with a plantar v-y advancement flap. all flaps survived completely without any flap- or donor site-related complications. the patients were ambulated two weeks following the reconstruction and were symptom-free after an average follow-up of thirteen months. distal flaps based on the dorsalis pedis system provide a reliable cover for distal foot defects.

No abstract

This study presents a retrospective evaluation of patients managed with single-stage repair following complex extensor tendon injuries. Over a 2-year period, 21 extensor tendons were reconstructed in 18 patients with complex hand injuries in zones V-VII. All eight patients needed soft tissue cover. Active mobilisation was started in the first week. Total active motion (TAM) at 4 weeks was a mean of 159 degrees (SD 21.57) and at 6 weeks it was 202.6 degrees (SD 13.26). Average TAM at 8 weeks was 223.8 degrees (SD 16.46) and 249.5 degrees (SD 14.38) at 12 weeks. Grip strength at 12 weeks and 6 months was around 75% and 90% of the contralateral normal hand in most of the patients. Single-stage reconstruction of complex extensor tendon injuries seems to reduce morbidity in terms of hospitalisation, and reduced cost of treatment. It also helps to achieve better functional outcome in the early postoperative period.

Proximal phalangeal fractures can be effectively treated by closed methods, using the stabilizing effect of soft tissues (zancolli complex-metacarpophalangeal retention apparatus) and external devices (traction splints), thus enabling bone healing and movement recovery at the same time.

This flap provides an excellent local option for small defects around ankle and over dorsum of foot. The advantages of this flap are its easy dissection, reliable blood supply. Disadvantages related to donor site can be minimized with careful technique.