The radial forearm free flap for head and neck reconstruction: a review

The radial forearm free flap has become a workhorse flap in head and neck reconstruction. Its lack of bulk, ease of dissection, vascularity, and malleability are among its many advantages.

A review of 157 radial forearm free flaps performed in 155 patients between March 1988 and June 1994 at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center was undertaken to determine outcome. Patient age ranged from 22 to 80 years (mean 56). There were 79 men and 76 women. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 75 months. The most prevalent neoplasm was squamous cell carcinoma (n = 129).

The most frequent tumor staging was T3, N0, M0. Various defects were observed; however, those requiring floor-of-mouth coverage were most common (n = 95). Partial or segmental mandibular resection was seen in 42. An osseous component was included in the radial forearm flap in 9 patients, and 64 patients had undergone some form of previous tumor resection. Fifty-seven patients received preoperative irradiation and 52, postoperative. The internal jugular vein (n = 131) and the external carotid artery (n = 134) were the most frequent recipient sites for microvascular anastomosis. Vein grafts were needed in 4 cases, and end-to-side anastomoses were most commonly performed. Total flap loss occurred in 7 cases (4.5%) and partial flap loss in 1 (0.6%). For total flap loss, salvage was accomplished by a second radial forearm free flap in 2 cases and alternative rotational flaps in 5. Other complications (infection, hematoma, fistula formation, etc.) were seen in 34%. Donor-site difficulties were seen in 21 cases.

The radial forearm free flap offers a variety of reconstructive options for the head and neck. Its low flap loss and complication rates offer the best choice for oral lining restoration if bulk is not required.