[Utilization of forearm island flaps in reconstructive surgery of the hand. Which one is the best option?]

The authors report their clinical experience after seventy-six forearm island flaps, and analyse the different possible forearm flap options in hand reconstructions. The different flaps-based on the radial, ulnar, interosseous and septocutaneous ulnar vessels-are compared in what, concerns the importance of the sacrificed artery, adverse sequelae of the donor area and their versatility to close large skin defects as well as their capacity to reach distal areas of the hand. Their ability to provide sensate coverage and to replace bone and tendons is also compared.