Case 6: Fingertip reconstruction by a V-Y flap and eponychial flap in a patient with fingertip amputation
Alina Strohmaier1, Martina Greminger1
- 1HOCH Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
Abstract
Keywords: Fingertip amputation; hand trauma; local flap; eponychial flap; V-Y flap Authors: Alina Strohmaier, MD, Martina Greminger, MD. Institution: HOCH Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland Abstract A 58-year-old male presented with fingertip amputation of the left index finger after a bicycle accident. The injury was classified as Ishikawa Zone 2/Allen Type III, with ulnar oblique pulp defect, subtotal nail bed loss but with intact germinative matrix, and exposed bone. Treatment involved a volar V-Y advancement flap for soft tissue coverage and an eponychial flap to allow visible nail growth. Postoperatively, early mobilization was conducted. At 6-month follow-up, the patient reported good functional outcomes. Examination revealed adequate soft tissue coverage, a normally growing but short nail without a claw-nail deformity, and a stable fingertip. The patient was able to play the piano again. A near-complete range of motion and normal sensation were achieved. This case demonstrates successful fingertip reconstruction using local flaps to restore function and maintain the nail, even when the nail bed is almost completely injured. Patient medical history A 58-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with amputation of the distal phalanx of the second digit on the left dominant hand. The patient sustained the injury while inspecting the brakes of a bicycle, resulting in the second digit impacting the bicycle spoke. The patient is a professional piano player. No regular intake of medication. Before and After Patient examination Emergency presentation of the patient with fingertip amputation (Ishikawa zone 2, Allen Type III) of the left index finger. Initial examination revealed an ulnar oblique amputation of the distal phalanx of the index finger (adominant). The visible part of the nail bed was almost completely injured; however, the germinative matrix remained intact. Sensitivity and blood circulation were preserved. Tendon function was int
BeforeAfterA 58-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with amputation of the distal phalanx of the second digit on the left dominant hand. The patient sustained the injury while inspecting the brakes of a bicycle, resulting in the second digit impacting the bicycle spoke. The patient is a professional piano player. No regular intake of medication.
2
To achieve an aesthetically and functionally pleasing outcome, an eponychium plasty was added to extend the visible part of the nail and enhance its appearance. The incision site and area designated for de-epithelialization were delineated. The available nail pocket measured approximately 4 mm. Deep radial and ulnar skin incisions were made, followed by de-epithelialization of the marked area using a scalpel. Subsequently, the flap was advanced proximally into the de-epithelialized region and secured using Prolene 4-0 sutures.
3
Follow up with a great result, and a minor size decrease of the finger defect.
4
How to cite this article
Alina Strohmaier, Martina Greminger. Case 6: Fingertip reconstruction by a V-Y flap and eponychial flap in a patient with fingertip amputation. Journal of Plastic, Breast & Reconstructive Surgery. 2025.
Open access. © 2025 The Author(s). Published by the Journal of Plastic, Breast & Reconstructive Surgery. Copyright to this case is shared between the author(s) and the journal; authors may reuse their own case for education, presentations and social media.
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