Radial Artery Forearm Free Flap Research Articles

Response to comment on: bioengineered dermal matrix (Integra®) reduces donor site morbidity in total phallic construction with radial artery forearm free-flap.

Response to comment on: bioengineered dermal matrix (Integra®) reduces donor site morbidity in total phallic construction with radial artery forearm free-flap.

Bioengineered dermal matrix (Integra®) reduces donor site morbidity in total phallic construction with radial artery forearm free-flap.

Total phallic construction with radial artery forearm free-flap (RAFFF) is widely regarded as the gold standard approach for phalloplasty. However, donor-site morbidity remains a significant concern, which is typically managed by using a full-thickness skin graft (FTSG) on the forearm. Split thickness skin grafts (STSG) have been proposed as an alternative, along with the use of an acellular dermal matrix substitute. A retrospective comparative analysis was performed to assess the differences in operative, functional and cosmetic outcomes between FTSG (Group A) and the combination of acellular dermal matrix with STSG (Group B). A retrospective cohort study was conducted on all patients who underwent total phallic construction with RAFFF, between 2016 and 2021. Post-operative surgical and functional outcomes were evaluated using validated tools. A total of 34 patients were included in the study, with 18 patients (52.9%) in Group A and 16 patients (47.1%) in Group B. Group B demonstrated a significant advantage in terms of healing time (24 days vs. 30 days, p = 0.003) and complete graft take (93.8% vs. 27.8%, p = 0.001). Group B also had significantly shorter operative times (310 min vs. 447 min, p = 0.001) and a reduced median hospital stay (8 days vs. 10 days, p = 0.001). Satisfaction with cosmesis was significantly higher in Group B (93.8% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.048).

(199) Anterolateral Thigh Flap Phalloplasty for Micropenis

Abstract Introduction Congenital micropenis is defined as a normally formed penis with a stretched penile length less than 2.5 standard deviations below the mean for that man’s age and ethnicity. Micropenis may present as an isolated condition or with other genital or multi-system abnormalities. Penile reconstruction or phalloplasty may be required where topical and systemic hormonal treatment have failed. The most common flap used for phalloplasty is the radial artery forearm free flap phalloplasty. Other alternatives include the anterolateral thigh (ALT), musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi and abdominal flaps. Objective The aim of this video is to illustrate the technique for penile reconstruction using a pedicled ALT flap without integrated urethra. Methods A 21-year-old man with micropenis and hypospadias from a disorder of sexual differentiation (46XY) presents for penile reconstruction following multiple failed attempts at hypospadias repair. He requested an ALT flap without integrated urethra because he is dependent on a long-term suprapubic catheter due to a hypocontractile bladder. Intraoperative vascular doppler identified 3 perforators from the descending branch of the lateral circumflex iliac artery of the left leg. The flap was designed centred on the perforators with dimensions of 14cm (length), 13cm (width at base) and 12cm (width at tip). The flap was raised carefully and transferred to the recipient groin. The neophallus was constructed and microsurgical anastomosis of the lateral cutaneous of the thigh to one of the dorsal penile nerves with 8/0 nylon was completed. The partially divided left vastus lateralis muscle was re-approximated and the skin edges drawn in and flattened. The left thigh was then resurfaced with a 14/1000 of an inch split-thickness skin graft from the contralateral thigh. All wounds were dressed. Results The man had an uneventful post-operative course with careful vascular monitoring, and he was discharged on day 10. He is currently awaiting glans-sculpting and will eventually proceed with insertion of an inflatable erectile device. Conclusions Penile reconstruction using an ALT flap can be offered to a well-informed and motivated man with a micropenis following appropriate assessment. As shown, the technique requires careful dissection of the perforator vessels and can usually be transferred as a pedicled flap. Pedicled flaps do not require microvascular anastomosis and therefore have a lower risk of vascular compromise. Further esthetic and functional refinements like the insertion of an erectile device are possible in later stages, if desired. Disclosure No

(245) Outcomes of Penile Reconstruction for Salvage of Penile Gangrene

Abstract Introduction The most catastrophic complication of penile implant surgery results in either total/partial loss of the penis to such an extent that salvage penile reconstruction or phalloplasty is required. Penile gangrene (or necrosis) is rare and is associated with several patient factors (smoking, diabetes) and surgical factors (sliding technique, revision or a subcoronal incision). Irreversible ischemia with tissue loss will ensue if the prosthesis is not removed immediately. Nevertheless, subsequent corporal fibrosis and penile length loss may preclude an adequate functional penile length. In this situation, total penile reconstruction would be the only option to restore the ability for sexual intercourse and to void while standing. Objective The aim of this series is to assess the risk factors that predispose a select group of patients that require phalloplasty following penile gangrene and their surgical and functional outcomes following reconstruction. Methods All patients following phalloplasty for penile necrosis were identified from a comprehensive prospective database. Potential risk factors for penile necrosis were identified and the type and outcomes of reconstruction summarized. Functional outcomes were assessed by non-validated questionnaire. Results Thirteen patients with a median age of 57 years (range 27-68 years) required phalloplasty following penile necrosis with no incidence of flap loss. Reasons for erectile dysfunction were diabetes (37.5%), Peyronie’s disease (31%) and pelvic trauma (25%). The most common identifiable risk factors was diabetes (60%), followed by smoking (53%), adjunctive procedures like sliding technique or grafting (40%), revision surgery (27%) and infection with delayed explantation (27%). All patients had more than one risk factor for penile necrosis. Penile reconstruction was achieved with the radial artery forearm free flap (62%) and the anterolateral thigh flap (38%). All flaps were designed with an integrated urethra requiring anastomotic urethroplasty. Urethral complications occurred in 46.2% of men (fistulae and strictures) requiring surgical repair (Clavien 3b) while 2 had partial skin graft loss from the donor arm that improved with dressings and antibiotics (Clavien 2). Following phalloplasty, all responders had sensation (46% could orgasm with the neophallus) and 86% were able to void while standing. Most men were satisfied with the esthetic outcome (92%). The questionnaire response rate was 67%. Conclusions Penile necrosis following penile prosthesis insertion is rare and occurs in the presence of risk factors, particularly diabetes and smoking. Penile prosthesis surgery should be considered carefully in this cohort of patients especially for revision surgery or where adjunctive procedures are planned. Infection requires immediate explant of the device. Phalloplasty has good surgical and functional outcomes should reconstruction be required although there is a significant risk of surgical complications. Disclosure No

V11-03 PENILE RECONSTRUCTION FOR CONGENITAL MICROPENIS WITH THE ANTEROLATERAL THIGH PEDICLED FLAP

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023V11-03 PENILE RECONSTRUCTION FOR CONGENITAL MICROPENIS WITH THE ANTEROLATERAL THIGH PEDICLED FLAP Aurélie Schirmann, Nim Christopher, David Ralph, and Wai Gin Lee Aurélie SchirmannAurélie Schirmann More articles by this author , Nim ChristopherNim Christopher More articles by this author , David RalphDavid Ralph More articles by this author , and Wai Gin LeeWai Gin Lee More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003337.03AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Congenital micropenis is defined as a normally formed penis with a stretched penile length less than 2.5 standard deviations below the mean for that man’s age and ethnicity. Micropenis may present as an isolated condition or with other genital or multi-system abnormalities. Penile reconstruction or phalloplasty may be required where topical and systemic hormonal treatment have failed. The most common flap used for phalloplasty is the radial artery forearm free flap phalloplasty. Other alternatives include the anterolateral thigh (ALT), musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi and abdominal flaps.The aim of this video is to illustrate the technique for penile reconstruction using a pedicled ALT flap without integrated urethra. METHODS: A 21-year-old man with micropenis and hypospadias from a disorder of sexual differentiation (46XY) presents for penile reconstruction following multiple failed attempts at hypospadias repair. He requested an ALT flap without integrated urethra because he is dependent on a long-term suprapubic catheter due to a hypocontractile bladder.Intraoperative vascular doppler identified 3 perforators from the descending branch of the lateral circumflex iliac artery of the left leg. The flap was designed centred on the perforators with dimensions of 14cm (length), 13cm (width at base) and 12cm (width at tip). The flap was raised carefully and transferred to the recipient groin. The neophallus was constructed and microsurgical anastomosis of the lateral cutaneous of the thigh to one of the dorsal penile nerves with 8/0 nylon was completed. The partially divided left vastus lateralis muscle was re-approximated and the skin edges drawn in and flattened. The left thigh was then resurfaced with a 14/1000 of an inch split-thickness skin graft from the contralateral thigh. All wounds were dressed. RESULTS: The man had an uneventful post-operative course with careful vascular monitoring, and he was discharged on day 10. He is currently awaiting glans-sculpting and will eventually proceed with insertion of an inflatable erectile device. CONCLUSIONS: Penile reconstruction using an ALT flap can be offered to a well-informed and motivated man with a micropenis following appropriate assessment. As shown, the technique requires careful dissection of the perforator vessels and can usually be transferred as a pedicled flap. Pedicled flaps do not require microvascular anastomosis and therefore have a lower risk of vascular compromise. Further aesthetic and functional refinements like the insertion of an erectile device are possible in later stages, if desired. Source of Funding: None declared © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e999 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Aurélie Schirmann More articles by this author Nim Christopher More articles by this author David Ralph More articles by this author Wai Gin Lee More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

MP02-05 SURGICAL AND PATIENT REPORTED OUTCOMES FOLLOWING PHALLOPLASTY FOR PENILE GANGRENE

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP02-05 SURGICAL AND PATIENT REPORTED OUTCOMES FOLLOWING PHALLOPLASTY FOR PENILE GANGRENE Wai Gin Lee, Hassan Assiri, Thomas Reid, Nim Christopher, and David Ralph Wai Gin LeeWai Gin Lee More articles by this author , Hassan AssiriHassan Assiri More articles by this author , Thomas ReidThomas Reid More articles by this author , Nim ChristopherNim Christopher More articles by this author , and David RalphDavid Ralph More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003213.05AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The most catastrophic complication of penile implant surgery results in either total/partial loss of the penis to such an extent that salvage penile reconstruction or phalloplasty is required. Penile gangrene (or necrosis) is rare and is associated with several patient factors (smoking, diabetes) and surgical factors (sliding technique, revision or a subcoronal incision). Irreversible ischemia with tissue loss will ensue if the prosthesis is not removed immediately. Nevertheless, subsequent corporal fibrosis and penile length loss may preclude an adequate functional penile length. In this situation, total penile reconstruction would be the only viable option to restore the ability for sexual intercourse and to void while standing. The aim of this series is to assess the risk factors that predispose a select group of patients that require phalloplasty following penile gangrene and their surgical and functional outcomes following reconstruction. METHODS: All patients following phalloplasty for penile necrosis were identified from a comprehensive prospective database. Potential risk factors for penile necrosis were identified and the type and outcomes of reconstruction summarized. Functional outcomes were assessed by non-validated questionnaire. RESULTS: Thirteen patients with a median age of 57 years (range 27-68 years) required phalloplasty following penile necrosis with no incidence of flap loss. Reasons for erectile dysfunction were diabetes (37.5%), Peyronie’s disease (31%) and pelvic trauma (25%). The most common identifiable risk factors was diabetes (60%), followed by smoking (53%), adjunctive procedures like sliding technique or grafting (40%), revision surgery (27%) and infection with delayed explantation (27%). All patients had more than one risk factor for penile necrosis. Penile reconstruction was achieved with the radial artery forearm free flap (62%) and the anterolateral thigh flap (38%). All flaps were designed with an integrated urethra requiring anastomotic urethroplasty. Urethral complications occurred in 46.2% of men (fistulae and strictures) requiring surgical repair (Clavien 3b) while 2 had partial skin graft loss from the donor arm that improved with dressings and antibiotics (Clavien 2). Following phalloplasty, all responders had sensation (46% could orgasm with the neophallus) and 86% were able to void while standing. Most men were satisfied with the esthetic outcome (92%). The questionnaire response rate was 67%. CONCLUSIONS: Penile necrosis following penile prosthesis insertion is rare and occurs in the presence of risk factors, particularly diabetes and smoking. Penile prosthesis surgery should be considered carefully in this cohort of patients especially for revision surgery or where adjunctive procedures are planned. Infection requires immediate explant of the device. Phalloplasty has good surgical and functional outcomes should reconstruction be required although there is a significant risk of surgical complications. Source of Funding: Not applicable © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e12 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Wai Gin Lee More articles by this author Hassan Assiri More articles by this author Thomas Reid More articles by this author Nim Christopher More articles by this author David Ralph More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Tissue Transfer After Tongue Resection: Micro-Vascular Reconstruction Using Radial Artery Free Flap versus Reconstruction by Split Thickness Skin Graft in T2 Lesions of Tongue Carcinoma.

To compare postoperative complications, functional rehabilitation, surgical outcomes of the radial artery forearm free flap (RAFFF) and split thickness skin graft (STSG) reconstruction of postsurgical defect in T2 lesions of cancer oral cavity. Observational Prospective comparative study. Academic tertiary referral centre. In our study of forty four patients, after tumour resection, half underwent reconstruction using RAFFF (Group I) and another half by STSG (Group II). All of the patients were followed postoperatively to determine and compare their functional outcomes related to donor site and recipient site complications, speech, deglutition and mouth opening. The speech intelligibility and deglutition were each assessed using Articulation Handicap Index and Vedio-fluoroscopy using the Functional oral intake scale. Operative time for STSG reconstruction was shorter at 2.2 ± 0.97 SD hours compared to 5.9 ± 1.24 SD hours for RAFFF reconstruction. Hospital stay was 8.3 ± 1.19 SD days for STSG patients and 12.6 ± 1.7 SD days for RAFFF patients. Thefunctional outcomes of speech quality and swallowing were near comparable in both groups but the donor site complications were significant in theRAFFF group. Operative time, hospital stay anddonor site complications are both significantly reduced with the STSG as opposed to RAFF. Functional and oncologic results of both methods are near comparable. To conclude, STSG can be used for reconstruction of thepost-surgical defects in T2 lesions of thetongue.

Phalloplasty – Sensate radial forearm free flap for creation of neourethra and neophallus in gender affirmation surgery: A case report

With an increase in gender affirmation surgery requirements, it is imperative to understand the procedure for phalloplasty. The Radial Forearm Free Flap is one of the most commonly used flaps for the same. We present this case of a 29-year-old patient who underwent phalloplasty by means of a radial artery forearm free flap. Surgical technique has been described including flap design, harvest, recipient site preparation, anastomosis of vessels and nerves, and post-operative care. The patient developed a small area of partial necrosis which was the dorsoulnar border of the flap. The rest of the neophallus and neourethra were viable, sensate and the patient was able to void urine through the neourethra while standing. The radial forearm free flap is a good option for phalloplasty in gender affirmation surgeries. However, surgeons need to be wary of the possibility of necrosis of the dorsoulnar aspect which may be exceeding the radial artery territory.

The surgical outcomes of radial artery forearm free-flap phalloplasty in transgender men: single-centre experience and systematic review of the current literature.

Radial artery forearm free-flap (RAFFF) phalloplasty is considered by most authors as the gold-standard technique for genital gender-affirming surgery (GGAS). RAFFF surgical complications have rarely been investigated, and the aim of this study and literature review is to analyse and focus on the surgical technique and its postoperative vascular complications. From May 2016 to January 2020, a consecutive series of 25 transgender men who underwent GGAS were enrolled in the present study. Age, BMI and smoking habits were recorded for all patients. Overall, vascular flap complications occurred in 20% of cases. Complete flap loss due to acute arterial thrombosis was recorded in a single case (4%). In 8% of cases, limited ventro-proximal arterial ischaemia was detected, while in the remaining 8% of cases, venous ventral ischaemia was reported. These results were compared with the current literature results. Indeed, from our analysis, the number of flap veins (<2) was the only predictive factor for vascular complications. In conclusion, RAFFF represents a reliable option for total phallic construction, leading to satisfactory results in terms of flap survival. To optimize the surgical outcomes, venous vascular drainage should be recommended.

Total Phallic Reconstruction in the Genetic Male

BackgroundTotal phallic reconstruction (TPR) is a reconstructive challenge. ObjectiveTo report both surgical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of genetic male patients undergoing TPR utilising a radial artery forearm free flap (RAFFF). Design, setting, and participantsA retrospective tertiary referral centre analysis of a series of genetic male patients with penile insufficiency (PI) either due to congenital micropenis, or from traumatic or surgical amputation was conducted. Surgical procedureRAFFF phalloplasty was conducted as a multistaged procedure: (1) TPR, (2) glans sculpting with second-stage urethroplasty when indicated, and (3) penile prosthesis implantation. MeasurementsA descriptive analysis of the patient's baseline features, surgical outcomes, and PROs was conducted. Results and limitationsA total of 108 patients were enrolled. The median age was 32.5 yr (interquartile range [IQR] 24–46) and median follow-up was 78.5 mo (IQR 30–129). A primary anastomotic urethroplasty was performed in 90 patients (83.4%) and a staged procedure in the remainder. Four patients experienced an acute arterial thrombosis, leading to complete loss of the phallus in two. Immediate surgical exploration saved the flap in two cases of venous thrombosis. Urethral complication occurred in 49.1% of patients. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed an association (p=0.04) between the staged urethral reconstruction and the incidence of urethral complications. The limitations of our study are its retrospective nature and the lack of control. ConclusionsDespite the high incidence of postoperative complications and the possible need for revisions, TPR in the genetic male with PI using a RAFFF yields satisfactory aesthetic and functional results. Patient summaryin this report, we looked at the outcomes from TPR in a large population of male patients with penile inadequacy either due to congenital micropenis, or from traumatic or surgical amputation. Our results support the idea that penile reconstruction with a forearm free flap leads to satisfactory outcomes.

Donor Site Morbidity in Phalloplasty Reconstructions: Outcomes of the Radial Forearm Free Flap.

Background:The radial artery forearm free flap (RFFF) is the workhorse technique for phallus reconstruction. The RFFF provides good cosmesis and potential sensory recovery. However, the donor site is large in comparison to other applications of the RFFF which may increase the potential for donor site morbidity, such as nerve injury, delayed wound healing, and decreased hand strength. This study systematically reviewed the current literature to assess the donor site morbidity associated with RFFF phalloplasty (RFFFP).Methods:A systematic review utilizing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines was completed of the current literature pertaining to donor site morbidity after RFFFP. Two investigators independently reviewed the literature to determine eligibility for inclusion. Two hundred sixty-seven studies were reviewed and 10 were included in the final analysis after application of exclusion criteria.Results:Nine hundred forty flap reconstructions were identified. Gender affirming surgery was the indication in 77.7% (n = 730) of patients. The overall donor site complication rate was 7.9% (n = 74). Skin graft failure occurred in 41 patients (4.5%) and was the most frequent complication. Donor site infection (n = 3, 15.8%), hematoma (n = 1, 0.8%), neuroma (n = 1, 10%), compartment syndrome (n = 1, 0.8%), decreased strength or sensation (n = 15, 4.9%), lymphedema or limb swelling (n = 10, 3.9%), and contracture (n = 2, 6.5%) were also found.Conclusions:The most common donor site complication after RFFFP is skin graft failure. Decreased forearm sensation and strength affected a significant proportion of patients within each reported cohort. Prospective studies should continue to evaluate donor site morbidity with objective measures, such as grip strength evaluation, and long-term follow-up for vascular changes following radial artery harvest.

Penile Reconstruction and the Role of Surgery in Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria is the distress that occurs when there is a mismatch between birth-assigned gender and expressed gender. Penile reconstruction may ameliorate the risk of suicide due to mental illness, social harassment, and isolation commonly experienced by these individuals. The ideal aim is to allow micturition while standing and penetrative intercourse with full sensation, but there is no universal agreement on the ideal flap design. Contemporary options for penile reconstruction include metoidioplasty and phalloplasty using either a pedicled or free flap. The most common flap currently performed is the radial artery forearm free flap. Secondary procedures following phalloplasty may include glansplasty, scrotoplasty, and insertion of penile and testicular prostheses.Patient summary: Penile reconstruction is offered to transgender men as part of their transition from female to male. Penile reconstruction may ameliorate the high risk of suicide due to mental illness, social harassment, and isolation commonly experienced by these individuals. Many techniques can be used for penile reconstruction with good outcomes, but none can fully satisfy all the needs of individuals seeking penile reconstruction.

Incidentaloma at Radial Artery Forearm Free Flap Harvest: An Occult Volar Wrist Ganglion

Occult volar wrist ganglion originating from radioscaphoid interval and having adherence to flexor carpi radialis tendon [Fcr] and radial artery is an uncommon occurrence. We report such a case which was occult and asymptomatic during pre-operative assessment and presented as an incidentaloma during radial artery forearm free flap harvest for oral cancer reconstruction.

Nasal reconstruction with a prefabricated free flap

We report a case of a 61-year-old patient who presented to us for nose and cheek reconstruction post multiple excisions of an extensive recurrent basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the right cheek and most of the nose. Nasal reconstruction was achieved with a free helical rim flap for the right ala and a staged prefabricated radial artery forearm free fascial flap. We were successful in producing a very favorable esthetic result and restoring nasal function.

Early experience with the medial sural artery perforator flap as an alternative to the radial forearm flap for reconstruction in the head and neck

The medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) flap has been well-described but has yet to find popularity in the United Kingdom. We describe our early experience of its use in 6 patients and our simplified method of marking up. Flaps ranged in size from 7×4cm to 12×5.5cm, and were thin (between 4 and 10mm). Pedicles were between 11 and 14cm long, arterial diameters were 1–2mm, and venous calibres were 2–6mm. We raised 4 flaps without the use of a tourniquet and found it helpful. Straightening the leg as the popliteal fossa was approached also eased dissection. There can be 2 separate pedicles. The donor site was closed primarily in 5 cases and all flaps survived. The MSAP is easier to do than the radial artery forearm free flap (RAFFF) and is a reliable alternative with low morbidity.

Total Phallic Reconstruction Using Radial Artery Based Forearm Free Flap Phalloplasty in Patients with Epispadias-Exstrophy Complex

We report our experience with total phallic construction using the radial artery forearm free flap in patients with bladder/cloacal exstrophy and micropenis-epispadias complex. We retrospectively reviewed notes on the 16 patients with bladder/cloacal exstrophy and micropenis-epispadias complex treated with total phallic construction using the radial artery based forearm free flap between January 2003 and October 2013. Surgical outcome, phallic cosmesis, complications, eventual need for revision surgery and patient satisfaction were recorded during followup. This technique allowed reconstruction of a cosmetically acceptable phallus in 15 patients. In 1 patient the distal third of the phallus was lost due toacute thrombosis of the arterial anastomosis immediately postoperatively. At a median followup of 20.5 months (range 2 to 38) 15 patients (93%) were fully satisfied with phallic cosmesis and size. Urethral stricture and fistula were the most common complications, which developed only at the native neourethral anastomosis. They were successfully managed by revision surgery. After revision surgery 11 of the 12 patients who underwent penile prosthesis implantation achieved sexual intercourse. The radial artery based forearm free flap is a good technique fortotal phallic construction in patients with bladder/cloacal exstrophy and micropenis-epispadias complex, providing reliable cosmetic and functional results.

Bipaddled submental artery flap

Oral cancer is a major public health problem in India. Most patients present with locally advanced disease requiring complex resection and reconstruction strategies. Costs, operating time and availability of expertise are major issues that influence efficient health delivery, especially in developing countries such as India. Technically simple and widely reproducible techniques may be used successfully where applicable, to overcome these issues. The submental artery flap is a well described and acceptable alternative to the radial artery forearm free flap in oral cavity reconstruction. Researchers have demonstrated its technical ease of performance and reproducibility amongst trainees. Here the authors describe the bipaddled submental artery flap, a modification of the standard flap, which can be used to provide lining as well as skin cover for a full thickness cheek defect. Two skin paddles are fashioned taking advantage of the vascular anatomy of the submental vessels.

The Prefabricated Gracilis Muscle Flap With Full-Thickness Skin Graft and Delay for Urethral Channel Reconstruction

Reconstruction of complex urethral defects should provide lasting coverage, a patent tube for voiding, and a natural appearing contour with minimal morbidity to the donor and recipient sites. Many reports have emerged in the literature regarding complex urethral reconstruction through a variety of methods including anterolateral thigh flaps, radial artery forearm free flap, and other simple skin and mucosal flaps. Recently, Ozkan and Ozkan reported using a prefabricated anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of a traumatic urethral defect (Ozkan and Ozkan, J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2009;62:380-384). In this report, we describe our experience with the use of a prefabricated gracilis muscle flap in a female-to-male transsexual with a complex proximal urethral stricture and distal fistula. We believe this is the first report of a prefabricated gracilis myocutaneous muscle flap being used for a long segment urethral stricture and distal fistula. We believe that this procedure offers a unique solution to a difficult problem with decreased morbidity and cosmetic advantages over other methods requiring microvascular anastomoses.

A comparison of free transfer of radial forearm and anterolateral thigh flaps for head and neck reconstruction

Anterolateral thigh flap (ALTF), since its first description, has challenged the role of the radial artery forearm free flap (RFFF) in head and neck reconstruction. The aim of our study was to objectively compare the two flaps in head and neck reconstruction. From March 2006 to January 2008, 61 head and neck reconstructions were done, 33 using RFFF and 28 using ALTF. Mean patient age was 46.93 years. There were 54 tumor and six trauma cases. Flap elevation time, pedicle length and diameter, flap failure, and re-exploration rates were not significantly different between the two flaps (p value = 0.698, 0.978, 0.832, 0.908, respectively). Significantly larger flaps were harvested from the anterolateral thigh compared to the forearm (p value = 0.000, 0.001). At the same time, the donor site complications were significantly lower in the ALTF cases (p value = 0.029). Considering the larger amount of flap available from a hidden donor site with a reliable vascular pedicle and a low frequency of donor site morbidity, we recommend that ALTF should be considered as a first choice for soft tissue defects in the head and neck region.

Free tissue transfer for trophic ulcer complicating leprosy

ABSTRACTPlantar ulceration is the commonest disability in leprosy and occurs in about 10 to 20% of leprosy patients. Various loco-regional flaps have been described for reconstruction of trophic ulcers; however, very large defects are not amenable to local flaps and free flaps form one of the important treatment options. We present a case of a post Hansen's trophic ulcer over the forefoot managed using a radial artery forearm free flap. Debridement of the osteomyelitic bone, removal of the bony prominences, coverage by a well-vascularised tissue, end-to-side arterial anastomosis, use of anterior tibial as the recipient vessel and good postoperative compliance in foot care on the part of the patient gave us good results.