Preservation of the Sterile Matrix, Hyponychium, and Fingertip Pad in Fingertip Reconstruction With Composite Fingertip and Nail Bed Graft and Volar V-Y Advancement Flap

The goals of fingertip reconstruction are to achieve adequate soft-tissue coverage and a functional nail plate and to maintain sensation, proprioception, and cosmesis. We present a composite tissue graft and volar V-Y advancement flap for reconstruction of a traumatic amputation of a fingertip, which provided optimal preservation of the hyponychium and the volar pad for prevention of a hook nail. Historically, composite fingertip grafts have not been recommended for adults with large defects. The amputated nail bed, hyponychium, and a 10 × 20-mm segment of the fingertip were utilized as a composite graft for reconstruction of the nail bed in an adult. The addition of a volar V-Y advancement flap to reconstruct the fingertip was necessary for complete soft-tissue reconstruction. The reconstruction resulted in nail plate adhesion without significant nail deformity and a functional and sensate fingertip. Components of amputated fingertips including the sterile matrix, hyponychium, and part of the fingertip can be utilized in a composite graft to yield satisfactory functional and cosmetic results in adults.