Soft tissue injuries of hand and palm are common occurrence caused by trauma, infection, burns and various medical procedures. The criteria for selection of appropriate flap for volar defects is based on ability of the flap to provide glabrous skin, adequacy of length, adequate sensitivity and ability to allow free movement of joints. In the present study we intend to describe our experience of resurfacing of palmodigitovolar defects with glabrous skin. Study population comprised of 32 patients with palmodigitovolar defects from various causes. All routine basic investigations were carried out before the surgery. Healthy palmar defects with red granulation tissue were considered for reconstruction by different suitable approaches using glabrous skin flap/grafts above according to the requirement of the defect and feasibility of the procedure. Clinical photographs were taken. Quality of life assessment was made using Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ). Patient was discharged and follow up was done on 7th, 21st and 60th post op days and pictures were taken for each follow up. At final assessment flap/graft sensation and overall outcome was noted. It was rated at a 5-point scale where 1 indicated a good outcome and 5 indicated a poor outcome. Mean age of patients was 27.78±16.38 years. There was a perfect matching of flap texture with recipient site in all the cases. Majority of cases (65.6%) had substantial matching of flap/graft colour with recipient site. On day 60, there were 30 (93.8%) cases who did not have any complications. In the remaining 2 (6.3%) had delayed donor site healing was observed as a complication. Use of glabrous skin grafts for covering the palmodigitovolar defects has been reported to be a promising option that results in superior results, improved function and sensation, near normal appearance and high durability.
