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Experience with the island radial forearm flap in local hand coverage
N B Meland1, S M Lincenberg, W P Cooney
1Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
The Journal of Trauma
|April 1, 1989
Summary
The radial forearm flap (RFF) effectively covers hand and forearm defects from injuries or tumor removal. While minor complications occurred, RFF is a viable option when local tissue is insufficient.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Soft-tissue defects in the hand and forearm often require complex reconstructive solutions.
- The radial forearm flap (RFF) is a versatile option for covering such defects.
- Evaluating the outcomes and complications of RFF in a specific patient cohort is crucial.
Observation:
- Twenty-eight island radial forearm flaps were utilized for soft-tissue reconstruction in 28 upper extremities.
- Indications included mutilating injuries, chemotherapy extravasation, and tumor excisions.
- Patient outcomes and donor site morbidity were prospectively evaluated.
Findings:
- Partial flap loss occurred in 3 patients (10.7%).
- Donor site skin graft sloughing was observed in 4 patients (14.3%).
- Sensory disturbances (dysesthesias, paresthesias) and weakness were reported by 12 patients (42.9%) and all patients, respectively.
Implications:
- The radial forearm flap is a reliable method for reconstructing soft-tissue defects in the hand and forearm.
- It is particularly useful when local tissue is unavailable or skin grafting is contraindicated.
- Acceptable donor site morbidity supports its continued use in select cases.