Related Experiment Videos
Flow changes in forearm arteries after elevating the radial forearm flap: prospective study using color duplex
A Talegón-Meléndez1, G Ciria-Lloréns, T Gómez-Cía
1Department of Radiology, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain.
Summary
Harvesting the radial forearm flap does not compromise hand blood supply. Post-excision forearm arterial flow increases, primarily through the ulnar and interosseous arteries, indicating no vascular morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Anatomy
Background:
- The radial forearm flap is a common reconstructive tool.
- Concerns exist regarding potential vascular compromise to the hand after radial artery excision.
- Understanding forearm arterial hemodynamics post-flap harvest is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in forearm arterial flow patterns after radial artery harvesting for flap creation.
- To assess the impact of radial artery excision on the vascularity of the hand.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 11 patients undergoing radial forearm flap surgery.
- Color duplex imaging was utilized for quantitative measurement of arterial blood flow.
- Forearm arterial flow was assessed before and after radial artery excision.
Main Results:
- Overall forearm blood flow demonstrated a tendency to increase after radial flap harvest.
- Significant compensatory flow increases were observed in the ulnar, posterior interosseous, and anterior interosseous arteries.
- These findings suggest robust collateral circulation within the forearm.
Conclusions:
- Radial artery excision during forearm flap harvesting does not result in significant vascular morbidity to the hand.
- The forearm possesses adequate collateral pathways to maintain hand perfusion.
- This study supports the safety of radial forearm flap procedures concerning distal vascular supply.