The shamrock flap: a three-paddle radial forearm flap

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• The radial forearm flap is a standard technique for oral cavity reconstruction.
• It is typically employed as a single-paddle flap, potentially including vascularized radius bone.
• Double-paddle flaps are utilized for more extensive defects involving both oral lining and overlying skin.

Observation:

• This report details the first documented use of a triple-paddle radial forearm flap.
• The reconstruction addressed defects following extensive tumor excision in the oral cavity.
• The flap incorporated a segment of vascularized radius.

Findings:

• A triple-paddle radial forearm flap was successfully utilized for complex oral cavity reconstruction.
• This technique allowed for simultaneous reconstruction of intraoral lining and overlying skin defects.
• The inclusion of a vascularized radius segment provided robust structural support.

Implications:

• The triple-paddle radial forearm flap represents an innovative advancement in reconstructive surgery.
• This technique expands the armamentarium for managing extensive head and neck defects.
• It offers a viable option for complex oral reconstructions where traditional methods may be insufficient.