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Forearm arterial loop as an expedient source for inflow to upper extremity free flaps
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA.
Microsurgery
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Free tissue transfers for upper extremity wounds can be challenging. Creating an arterial loop from forearm arteries offers a reliable inflow source and preserves hand function by avoiding injury to critical structures.
Area of Science:
- Reconstructive surgery
- Vascular surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Free tissue transfer is a complex reconstructive option for challenging upper extremity wounds.
- Recipient vessel access in the upper extremity can be less familiar compared to the lower extremity.
- Preserving hand function is paramount in upper extremity reconstruction.
Observation:
- Challenging upper extremity wounds requiring free tissue transfer are infrequent.
- Familiarity with recipient vessel access techniques may be limited.
- Dissection near vital structures can compromise hand function.
Findings:
- An arterial loop created from a major forearm artery provides an accessible inflow source for free flaps.
- This technique utilizes pristine vessels of comparable caliber for flap anastomosis.
- Elevating a portion of the artery avoids dissection in critical neurovascular and musculotendinous areas.
Implications:
- Arterial loop creation offers a valuable alternative for recipient vessel preparation in upper extremity free flaps.
- This method enhances the reliability of free tissue transfer for complex limb injuries.
- It contributes to improved functional outcomes by safeguarding essential anatomical structures.