The Lateral Antebrachial Neurocutaneous Flap: Case Series

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Microsurgery

Background:

• Neurocutaneous flaps leverage superficial cutaneous nerves and their associated vasa nervorum for vascular supply.
• The lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve (LACN) is a key focus due to its reliable paraneural vessels supplying the flap.
• Understanding neurocutaneous perforators is crucial for flap design and success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and versatility of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve (LACN) flap for soft tissue defect reconstruction.
• To assess the outcomes of LACN flaps in patients with hand, wrist, and distal forearm defects.
• To compare the morbidity of LACN flaps with alternative reconstructive options.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 30 flap coverage procedures using the LACN flap in 10 pediatric patients.
• Flaps were designed with a distal base along the radial aspect of the hand and wrist, with a dorsal pivot point.
• Patient selection included cases of posttraumatic tissue loss, exposed vital structures, or hand contractures, with individual case assessments.

Main Results:

• The study included 13 male patients aged 6 to 65 years.
• Data collected included demographics, trauma etiology, and postoperative complications.
• Statistically significant improvements were noted in flap healing and defect restoration.

Conclusions:

• The LACN flap is a highly versatile option for soft tissue defect coverage around the hand, wrist, and distal forearm.
• This flap offers reduced morbidity compared to alternative reconstructive methods.
• The LACN flap represents an effective solution for complex reconstructive challenges in the upper extremity.