Clinical Application of Extended Lateral Arm Free Flap

ABSTRACT

Despite of its many advantages, application of the classic lateral arm flap has been limited due to its small skin paddle size, thick subcutaneous tissue, a short vascular pedicle, and inconsistent sensory innervation and recovery. The flap has been used for small to medium sized defects. Keuk and Chuan (1991) reported arterial mapping of the lateral arm through the dye injection study, and the posterior lateral collateral atery passed below the lateral epicondyle an average of 7.9 cm and then anastomosed with rich vascular plexus of the proximal forearm. From March 1997 to April 1998, we have performed 8 extended lateral arm free flaps successfully at various sites such as the face, hand, forefoot, and the heel. All flaps completely survived. We found out the extended lateral arm free flap could be suitable for resurfacing the face, hand and foot because of its long pedicle, very thin and pliable skin paddle. We present diversity for its use and its safety.