The free radial forearm flap with and without bone for closure of large palatal fistulae.

Three cases of palatal fistulae closed by microvascular transfer of radial forearm flaps are presented. Vascularised bone was included in one flap and all operations were free of complications. Facial scarring is minimal and the secondary deformity in the arm has not been significant. It is suggested that this procedure presents fewer difficulties than other techniques for treating the large palatal fistula and may prevent the collapse of the alveolar arch which follows the scarring associated with closure by local tissue.

Total cutaneous harvesting from an amputated foot--two free flaps used for acute reconstruction.

Loss of weight-bearing skin of the foot produces a difficult reconstructive problem. A case is presented of severe bilateral lower limb trauma in which the right leg was amputated below the knee and two free flaps taken from the amputated foot were used for cover of the damaged left foot and the amputation stump.