Long pedicle for radial forearm flaps as a reconstruction of hand surgery: A case series

Abstract

Introduction: Long Pedicle for Radial forearm flap is a reconstructive option for skin and soft tissue that benefits from harvesting, rich tissue, and long pedicles. In this paper, we will explain the use of forearm radials in acute trauma cases and chronic cases with different skin sites on the dorsal and volar hands. However, there is a dearth of reports in our area about the use of this flap.

Methods: Reconstruction of two cases with hand defect problems had been successfully performed using radial forearm flap in January 2020 in Orthopaedic and Traumatology Department of Hasan Sadikin Hospital.

Results: Two radial forearm flaps were used to reconstruct hand defects in two different sites and different mechanism of injuries. One patient performed radial forearm flap as defect closure due to traumatic injury in the dorsal site, while the next patient with post-incision defect due to release contracture at volar aspect of the hand performed another radial forearm flap. On long-term evaluation, the flaps are found to be vital, thin and pliable.

Conclusion: Radial forearm flaps are effective in providing skin cover from soft tissue damage that is difficult for the functions of the hands of our patients. There are many potential advantages to this flapping technique. The design and height of the cover do not technically require micro-network transfer which is still under development.