Hand blood supply in radial forearm flap donor extremities: a qualitative analysis using doppler examination

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• Radial forearm flap surgery is a common procedure for reconstruction.
• Understanding the vascular contribution of forearm arteries is crucial for surgical success.
• The role of the anterior interosseous artery in hand vascularity post-surgery requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the contribution of forearm arteries to hand vascularity after radial forearm flap surgery.
• To determine the specific role of the anterior interosseous artery in maintaining hand blood supply post-procedure.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study design.
• Doppler ultrasound examinations of radial, ulnar, anterior interosseous, and posterior interosseous arteries in the distal forearm.
• Modified Allen test utilized for vascular assessment.
• Inclusion of 27 patients undergoing radial forearm flap surgery.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a significant contribution of the anterior interosseous artery to hand vascularity.
• Provided quantitative and qualitative data on forearm arterial contribution post-surgery.
• Highlighted the importance of the anterior interosseous artery in maintaining adequate hand perfusion.

Conclusions:

• The anterior interosseous artery plays a significant role in the vascularization of the hand following radial forearm flap surgery.
• Findings emphasize the need to consider the anterior interosseous artery's contribution during surgical planning and execution.
• This study enhances understanding of forearm arterial anatomy and its implications in reconstructive surgery.