Facial and frontal reconstruction with a modified radial artery perforator-based flap

VernacularTitle:改良桡动脉穿支皮瓣在修复额面部组织缺损中的应用
Author: Qingping XIE ; Enqi GUO ; Peihong JIN ; Xinwei XU ; Ben FAN ; Liang WANG
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Radial artery; Perforator flap; Facial and frontal regions; Microsurgery
From: Chinese Journal of Microsurgery 2010;33(1):6-8,89
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Objective In attempt to improve the reconstruction of small defects in the facial and frontal regions, we developed a modified radial artery perforator-based free flap. Methods The free proxi-mal radial forearm flap was based on the distal perforator of the radial artery and the concomitant radial vein. The vascular pedicle passed through deep fascia. The free flap was transferred to repair the defects of the fa-cial and frontal regions. Results In 6 patients with frontal defects and 4 patients with facial defects, all flaps survived completely. After following up for 6-12 months, flaps underwent plastic surgery to become thin-ner. The flaps of 10 cases were good in skin texture and color at recipient sites. The scars were cosmetically acceptable. The superficial sensibility recovered well. Conclusion A modified radial artery perforator-based free flap was useful in coveting small defects of the facial and frontal regions.