Simultaneous Application of Alloderm, Split-Thickness Skin Graft, and Negative Pressure Dressing at Radial Forearm Free Flap Donor Sites

Abstract

The radial forearm free flap is still one of the most popular flaps of choice for head and neck reconstruction. It is thin, easy to handle, and has a reliable vascular anatomy and supply. Donor sites may be closed primarily with small-sized flaps, leaving an acceptable scar. But in cases where donor sites are not closed primarily, skin graft is inevitable. This may lead to problems such as scars, delayed healing of the graft when tendons are exposed, and prolonged immobilization of the wrist after the skin graft procedure. This paper introduced a method combining the use of dermal allograft, split-thickness skin graft, and negative pressure to address the problems mentioned.