Further experience with the lateral arm free flap.

Abstract

Our experience with the lateral arm free flap over the last 7 years was reviewed in detail, placing emphasis on the clinical aspects and modifications of the flap. A total of 150 patients have undergone reconstructive procedures with the flap for small to medium-sized defects. This included 18 split flaps, 11 osteocutaneous flaps, 6 with vascularized triceps tendon, 5 neurosensory flaps, and 5 fascia-fat flaps. The donor-site scar was generally acceptable; only 3 patients required scar revision and 15 patients required debulking of the flaps. With use of the split flap for wide defects, tension-free primary closure of the donor site can be achieved. In most cases, a two-team approach may be adopted, thereby increasing the efficiency of this microvascular transfer.