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Closure of radial forearm free flap donor site: A comparative study between keystone flap and skin graft
Background
The aim was to investigate the feasibility of radial forearm free flap (RFFF) donor site closure by keystone flap (KF) and compare its outcomes to those of skin graft (SG) closure.
Methods
One hundred and one patients who underwent RFFF for head and neck reconstruction were included (35 KF closure and 65 SG closure). Duration of wound healing and donor site complications was collected. After a minimal followâup of 1âyear, patients were questioned about functional and esthetic impairment.
Results
Coverage of donor site by KF was successful in all cases. The duration of wound healing was longer after SG than after KF (32âdays vs 18âdays, Pâ< .001). Healing complications, esthetic and functional results were not statistically different.
Conclusion
Forearm donor site closure by KF is a feasible alternative to the traditional SG. Its main advantages are the reduced wound healing time and the avoidance of a second donor site