Abstract

Background: The radial free forearm flap (RFFF) was one of the first free tissue transfer flaps to be described. It has since become a work-horse for soft tissue replacement in head and neck cancer surgery, being commonly used to replace external skin and internal mucosal linings.

Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study on the reconstructions with microvascular radial forearm free flap in the head and neck area performed by physicians in the Head and Neck Service at our Hospital between June 2018 and January 2020. The aim of this study is to report our experience with radial forearm flap.

Results: A total of 14 reconstructions with microvascularized free forearm free flap were carried out.

Discussion: RFFF offers ease of harvesting and reliability due to its constant, reproducible vascular anatomy. It is also versatile owing to the relatively long pedicle and thin, pliable, hairless skin paddle. A two-team approach is possible in head and neck surgery, various forms being applicable, for example, free or pedicled, proximally or distally.

Conclusion: The key points are careful flap and template design, flap design on the forearm to include the lateral intermuscular septum as well as a superficial vein (usually cephalic), elevate medial and lateral fasciocutaneous parts of the flap and dissect to-wards the lateral intermuscular septum and Brachioradialis muscle is most critical element of elevating the flap.

Keywords: Radial Free Forearm Flap (RFFF); Head and Neck Reconstruction

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