Abstract: Objective To evaluate the sensory recovery of both innervated and noninnervated homodigital island flaps based on the digital artery distal dorsal branch(DDB) for fingertip repair. Methods Twenty-seven cases of fingertip injuries repaired with DDB flaps were retrospectively investigated. Mean follow-up time was 13.2 months(6-28 months). Sensory recovery was assessed using SW monofilament, static and moving two-point discrimination tests. Pain and cold intolerance were respectively measured by visual analogue scale and Cold Intolerance Severity Score questionnaire. Results All flaps survived. Patients were satisfied with the fingertip appearance. Flap sensation had no significant difference in both innervated and noninnervated groups according to long-term follow-up. Conclusion The digital artery DDB flap is an alternative method for fingertip repair. Noninnervated DDB flap can restore flap sensation in long-term evaluation.

Key words: Fingertip injury, Sensory recovery, Homodigital flap, Digital artery distal dorsal branch