Modified Free Radial Forearm Flap without Grafting in the Reconstruction of Post-operative Defects of Head and Neck Cancer
Author(s): Wang Shaoxin, Sheng Jianfeng, Chen Jianchao, Li Chao, Wang Wei, Cai Yongcong, Liu Jifeng, Zhu Guiquan
Pages: 182-185
Year: 2017 Issue: 3
Journal: Journal of Cancer Control and Treatment
Keyword: Radial Forearm Free Flap; Modification; Adjacent Skin Flap; Head and Neck Cancer;
Abstract: Objective: To describe a technique modification for radial forearm free flap (RFF) raising and direct closure of the forearm donor site.Methods: RFFs were harvested as rhomboid,with the long axis centered on the radial artery in 13 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.A bilobed rhomboid flap was designed adjacent to the donor defect.After raising the RFFs,the wounds were closed primarily without tension.Results: All 13 RFF and bilobed rhomboid flaps survived completely,and the donor sites healed primarily without any skin graft or major complication.Ecchymosis and blisters occurred in two bilobed rhomboid flaps,which did not affect the survival of the flaps.The post-operative movement of wrist was as normal as the opposite wrist.Conclusion: RFFs are harvested as rhomboids,with their long axis centered on the radial artery,ensuring radial forearm flap viability.The direct closure of donor site of RFF by bilobed rhomboid flap without skin grafting increases the aesthetic and functional outcomes of patients.
Pages: 182-185
Year: 2017 Issue: 3
Journal: Journal of Cancer Control and Treatment
Keyword: Radial Forearm Free Flap; Modification; Adjacent Skin Flap; Head and Neck Cancer;
Abstract: Objective: To describe a technique modification for radial forearm free flap (RFF) raising and direct closure of the forearm donor site.Methods: RFFs were harvested as rhomboid,with the long axis centered on the radial artery in 13 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.A bilobed rhomboid flap was designed adjacent to the donor defect.After raising the RFFs,the wounds were closed primarily without tension.Results: All 13 RFF and bilobed rhomboid flaps survived completely,and the donor sites healed primarily without any skin graft or major complication.Ecchymosis and blisters occurred in two bilobed rhomboid flaps,which did not affect the survival of the flaps.The post-operative movement of wrist was as normal as the opposite wrist.Conclusion: RFFs are harvested as rhomboids,with their long axis centered on the radial artery,ensuring radial forearm flap viability.The direct closure of donor site of RFF by bilobed rhomboid flap without skin grafting increases the aesthetic and functional outcomes of patients.
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