Experience with the radial forearm flap in 14 cases

In 14 cases aged 9-79 years the radial forearm flap has been used for reconstruction. Of 4 island flaps, 2 were distally based (1 with nerve anastomosis) and 2 proximally based (1 innervated). Of the free flaps, 7 were for intra-oral lining following major resection and 3 of these included hemi-radius for mandibular reconstruction. Most flaps were put into a hostile environment resulting from chronic infection and/or radiotherapy or fast neutron therapy. Two flaps failed including one osseocutaneous free flap. Important anatomical, pre-operative and operative aspects are considered, including a description of the timed Allen test, and potential pitfalls and refinements are described.