J Reconstr Microsurg 1988; 4(4): 297-301
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006935
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1988 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Angiologic Observations Following Autologous Vein Grafting and Free Radial Artery Flap Elevation

P. Brenner, A. Berger, L. Caspary
  • Clinic of Plastic, Hand, and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Angiology, Medical School of Hannover, West Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Accepted for publication 1988

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

Fifteen cases with radial forearm flap harvesting and autologous vein-graft reconstruction of the missing radial artery portion, are reported. Post-repair follow-up examinations, using segment plethysmog-raphy, photoplethysmography, and Doppler ultrasound, demonstrated an angiologic donor site morbidity, even when radial artery reconstruction was performed. Typically diminished blood pressure occurred, in comparison with the contralateral healthy extremity. Index shifting of pulse wave peaks, as well as widening of pulse wave bases occurred, especially in the thumb and index finger. These latter findings appear to be discrete indicators of arterial insufficiency.