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J Reconstr Microsurg 2012; 28(02): 133-138
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1289165
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Donor-Site Morbidity of the Sensate Extended Lateral Arm Flap

Christian Depner
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
,
Paolo Erba
2   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
,
Ulrich M. Rieger
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
3   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
,
Fabienne Iten
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
,
Dirk J. Schaefer
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
,
Martin Haug
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

18 June 2011

17 July 2011

Publication Date:
29 September 2011 (online)

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Abstract

The free extended lateral arm flap (ELAF) has gained increasing popularity thank to its slimness and versatility, longer neurovascular pedicle, and greater flap size when compared with the original flap design. The aim of this study was to assess the donor-site morbidity associated with this extended procedure. A retrospective study of 25 consecutive patients analyzing postoperative complications using a visual analogue scale questionnaire revealed high patients satisfaction and negligible donor-site morbidity of the ELAF. Scar visibility was the commonest negative outcome. Impaired mobility of the elbow had the highest correlation with patient dissatisfaction. Sensory deficits or paresthetic disorders did not affect patient satisfaction. The extension of the lateral arm flap and positioning over the lateral humeral epicondyle is a safe and well-accepted procedure with minimal donor-site morbidity. To optimize outcomes, a maximal flap width of 6 or 7 cm and intensive postoperative mobilization therapy is advisable.

Keywords

lateral arm flap - donor site morbidity - sensate free flap
 

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