Free radial forearm flap versatility for the head and neck and lower extremity

Journal Article · Tue Jul 01 00:00:00 EDT 1986 · J. Reconstr. Microsurg.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2007-1007026· OSTI ID:6934077

Chicarilli, Z N; Ariyan, S; Cuono, C B

Microsurgical techniques have developed numerous territories suitable for free tissue transfer. However, the demand for thin cutaneous resurfacing limits the choice of flaps available to the reconstructive microsurgeon. The radial forearm flap is a thin, axial, fasciocutaneous flap, offering pliable cutaneous resurfacing, with or without sensation. We have used 15 flaps to reconstruct defects in the head and neck and lower extremity resulting from burns, blunt and avulsive trauma, radiation necrosis, and tumor ablation. Two flaps (15 percent) developed venous congestion and were salvaged by reoperation. One retrograde flap (7.5 percent) developed partial necrosis from arterial insufficiency. Neural re-innervation was successful in two out of three patients in whom it was attempted. Two patients (15%) sustained minor donor site skin graft loss that healed secondarily. In our series of predominantly older patients the donor sites have been relatively inconspicuous at one year follow-up. A functional restoration was achieved in all patients.

• Research Organization: Yale Univ., CT
• OSTI ID: 6934077
• Journal Information: J. Reconstr. Microsurg.; (United States), Vol. 4
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
RADIATION INJURIES
POST-IRRADIATION THERAPY
BURNS
GRAFTS
HEAD
NECK
NEOPLASMS
SURGERY
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
BIOLOGICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
BODY
BODY AREAS
DISEASES
INJURIES
MEDICINE
RADIATION EFFECTS
THERAPY
TRANSPLANTS
560151* - Radiation Effects on Animals- Man