Review of the radial free flap: still evolving or facing extinction? Part two: osteocutaneous radial free flap

Abstract

The osteocutaneous radial flap is robust, reliable, and relatively simple to harvest, which will ensure that it remains one of the established reconstructive options in most maxillofacial units. Evidence based on clinical observational studies and biomechanical studies supports the routine or selective use of prophylactic internal fixation to strengthen the radial osteocutaneous donor site. This allows safe harvesting of the maximum volume of available bone, up to half of the circumference, with minimal risk of fracture or long term complications. The incidence of fracture with the plate placed either anteriorly or posteriorly is equally low, but the anterior position is technically easier and probably less likely to cause additional morbidity. This approach probably produces the least morbidity that may currently be achieved when managing the inherent flaws of the radial hard tissue donor site. The introduction of prophylactic internal fixation consolidates the role of the osteocutaneous radial flap for repair of defects that require a relatively small volume of bone and an appreciable area of thin soft tissue, particularly when a long vascular pedicle is desirable. This includes low level defects of the maxilla, some defects of the mandible, and niche reconstructions, such as the orbital rim. It remains useful as a first choice of flap when there is appreciable peripheral vascular disease, when there are other serious coexisting medical conditions; if it is the preferred choice of the patient for functional reasons such as mobility of the lower limb or hip, and as a salvage flap when other reconstructive options have been exhausted.