Objectives
The cross-finger flap (CFF) has been used by many surgeons for the reconstruction of fingertip defects since its introduction. However, the need for immobilization may cause joint stiffness in both the injured finger and the donor finger. The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare the clinical results and time to return to work of patients who underwent CFF due to fingertip amputation by two surgeons with different flap division time preferences.
Methods
Study include 34 patients between October 2015 and April 2020, undergoing acute CFF reconstruction by two different surgeons. 16 patients whose flaps were divided between days 9 and 13 were included in Group A and 18 patients whose flaps were divided between days 20 and 24 were included in Group B. Patient complications, flap viability, time to return to work, range of motions and two-point discrimination values of the fingers were noted and evaluated.
Results
The mean follow-up period was 15.8 ± 3.2 months. The mean age of the patients in Group A was 33.19 ± 10.85 years and in Group B was 34.44±11.11 years. The patients in Group A had shorter return-to-work times than the patients in Group B, and this difference was statistically significant.
Conclusion
Early flap division did not cause a significant difference in clinical outcomes and complications. In terms of labor loss, which is very important in today's working conditions, it was found that early flap division had a positive effect by shortening the return to work time.
Key words: flap viability; labor loss; fingertip reconstruction
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