[The reverse forearm flap pedicled with the ulnar branch of the ulnar artery].

OBJECTIVE: To introduce a new flap for the repair of soft tissue defects in the hand. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSIONS: 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.