Naslov
Protective intramedullary fixation after harvest of an osteocutaneous radial free flap

Autori
Knežević, Predrag ; Grgurević Lovro ; Uglešić, Vedran ; Lemac, Domagoj ; Glamuzina, Ratko ; Grgurević, Jakša

Izvornik
Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery (0284-4311) 42 (2008), 3; 145-148

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
radial forearm free flap; intramedullary fixation; fracture prophylaxis

Sažetak
The osteocutaneous radial free flap, even after 30 years, is still considered to be the "workhorse" for head and neck reconstruction. A high incidence of donor site fractures has remained a major problem, however. The technique described here is a method developed for the prophylaxis of fractures of the donor site of the harvested radial bone and is based on a modification of the intramedullary Rush nail fixation. The data were collected from 18 patients in whom the radial forearm free flap had been used during reconstruction. None of the prophylactically-nailed radii fractured. The complications experienced with this technique are general complications, such as scarring of the forearm and dehiscence of the wound. This technique is simple, and has given excellent results. Aesthetic and functional results were comparable to those of other flaps used for reconstruction. We recommend this technique because of its simplicity, vascular safety, and cost effectiveness.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Kliničke medicinske znanosti

POVEZANOST RADA