J Reconstr Microsurg 1991; 7(3): 167-173
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006775
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1991 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

The Extended Lateral Arm Flap: A New Modification

Leslie B.K. Kuek, Teoh Lam Chuan
  • Departments of Hand and Plastic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital
Further Information

Publication History

Accepted for publication 1991

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

The lateral arm flap has been one of the mainstays in the armamentarium of microvascular reconstructive surgeons, especially in the cover of small to medium-sized defects.

Despite its many advantages, its widespread application has been limited by its small skin paddle. As a result of detailed anatomic and dye-injection studies, it is possible to determine the actual extent of the cutaneous vascular supply of this flap, which is derived from the posterior radial collateral artery. This artery is found to extend significantly beyond the elbow and into the radial aspect of the upper forearm and, through clinical illustrations, it can be shown that a much larger flap can be harvested and used in a manner that is more versatile than the conventional lateral arm flap.