Z‐Plasty Closure of The Donor Defect of the Radial Forearm Free Flap

ABSTRACT

The radial forearm is a popular free flap site for reconstruction of head and neck defects, because of its abundant, pliable, skin component and an available, extended, vascular pedicle. In addition, vascularized composite flaps, including a segment of radius, can be designed for skeletal stabilization. The donor-site defect can involve various complications, including loss of skin graft, unsatisfactory appearance, numbness, and radial fracture. Recent advances in reducing donorsite defect problems have included the use of rotation skin flaps, local muscle rotation, and soft-tissue expansion; however, each of these has its own limitations. Two cases are presented in which radial forearm donor site defects, measuring less than 4 cm × 6 cm, were primarily closed successfully with z-plasties based on the longitudinal skin incision. Each patient has regained preoperative mobility, and prompt primary healing was achieved without complications.