Lateral Arm Flaps : Its Clinical Applications and Superiority

Abstract

Lateral arm flap has been used for the reconstruction of the various defects in hand, head and neck region. This flap is highly dependable as a free flap because of its thin flap thickness, constant vascular anatomy and possibility of osteocutaneous flap and fascial flap. Recently, many authors tried extended approach for vascular pedicle and distal flap extension for bigger defects. In this study, we review previous articles and 14 cases used lateral arm flaps for coverage of the varying defect on head and neck, upper and lower extremities successfully. In conclusion, lateral arm flap has constant anatomical structure and can overcome the disadvantages such as short pedicle length and limited flap size, then the range of its application can be very widened.