The thenar flap—An analysis of its use in 150 cases

Charles P. Melone, Robert W. Beasley, John H. Carstens

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

86 Scopus citations

Abstract

The thenar flap applied skillfully is consistently an excellent method of restoring major soft tissue losses from the distal phalanx for all age groups. Its advantages are (1) its perfect tissue match, (2) its abundance of subcutaneous tissues, and (3) its inconspicuous donor site. In this series of 150 cases, thenar donor site problems were infrequent and joint contractures developed in only six (4%) of the patients, all of whom received trauma to the finger joint in addition to the distal amputation. Complications can be avoided by observing three cardinal technical principles. (1) Design the flap out on the thumb near the metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint crease, avoiding the midpalmar area. (2) Fully flex the MP joint, and when possible the distal interphalangeal (IP) joint, of the recipient finger to minimize proximal IP joint flexion. (3) Sever the pedicle after 10 to 14 days and immediately start active exercises.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)291-297
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Hand Surgery
Volume7
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1982
Externally publishedYes

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