The reverse forearm flap pedicled with the ulnar branch of the ulnar artery / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To introduce a new flap for the repair of soft tissue defects in the hand.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The distally pedicled ulnar flap is based on the ascending branch of the upper-wrist cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery. The retrograde flow is ensured by the dorsal carpal arch via the descending branch.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>From 2000 to 2003, the flap was used to treat 8 cases of hand defects, including 3 dorsal defects, 2 palmar defects and 3 the first web defects. All flaps survived and the appearance was satisfactory.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The reverse forearm flap pedicled with the ulnar branch of the ulnar artery provides a long vascular pedicle. The donor site scar is aesthetically acceptable.</p>