Reconstruction of the Extremities with Lateral Arm Free Flap

외측 상완 유리 판을 이용한 사지 재건술

Introduction: To cover the exposed tendons and bones in the foot and hand which need coverage and abundant vascular flow, lateral arm flaps were transferred. Lateral arm flap is a thin and innervated fasciocutaneous flap with a lower lateral cutaneous nerve and posterior radial collateral artery. Materials and methods: From October 1992 through September 2003, we have performed 5 lateral arm flaps for reconstruction of the exposed achilles tendons in 2 cases and the exposed forearm extensors, 2nd to 5th metacarpal bones and scaphoid each 1 case. The causes were traffic accident in 2 cases and machinary injury in 3 cases. Age range was between 31 to 74 (average 50) and all male except 1. Posterior lateral collateral artery and venae comitantes were anastomosed by end to end in 3 cases and vena comitante in 2 cases. Lower lateral cutaneous nerve was anastomosed with a branch of superficial radial nerve in 2 cases. Results: The results were evaluated by survival of the flap, sensory discrimination, cosmesis and comfort in the activities of the daily living. All flaps were survived. Sensory recovery was graded as deep cutaneous pain sensibility in 2 cases. Cosmesis was moderately satisfied and comfort was good except 1 as moderate. Postoperative defatting procedure was done in 1 case and skin abrasion was occurred in 1 case. Conclusion: Lateral arm flap was suitable for coverage of the exposed achilles tendons and exposed forearm extensors, metacarpals and scaphoid in the wrist.