CORRECTION OF HOOKED-NAIL DEFORMITY BY HOMODIGITAL REVERSE FLOW ISLAND FLAP

Abstract

Objective: Hooked-nail deformity results from loss of bony and soft tissue support of the nail bed. Various treatment methods have been described for soft tissue support with inconsistent results.Methods: Eleven patients (mean age 21 years old, 10 male, 1 female) with hooked-nail deformities on twelve of their fingertips were treated by using homodigital reverse flow island flap. Mean follow-up period was 6 months.Results: All treated fingers gained nearly normal appearances and all patients were satisfied. None fef the patients had experienced recurrence of the deformity. 2 patients complained of cold intolerance.Conclusion: The described method is a one- stage procedure. Ample flap tissue taken from the same finger is applied to the fingertip. A short period of immobilization is necessary avoiding any joint stiffness. Homodigital reverse flow island flap was considered an effective method for correcting hooked-nail deformities resulting from inadequate soft tissue support of nail bed.Key Words: Hook nail, Homodigital reverse flow island flap.