Dimensional guide to harvesting the radius for orofacial reconstruction

Abstract

Objective: To provide an accurate harvesting guide to maintain the maximum possible safe dimensions of the radius for orofacial reconstruction using the osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap. Material and Method: Two hundred radii of 100 adult formalin-embalmed cadavers (52 males, 48 females) were measured. Results: The mean minimum circumference of the radius measured between the pronator teres and brachioradialis insertions was 41.0 ± 4.3 mm. At this point, the mean medio-lateral diameter was 13.4 ± 1.6 mm. The mean of the maximum harvested length of the radius between the pronator teres and brachioradialis insertions was 81.3 ± 10.4 mm. On the average, the maximum harvested length of the radius was 34.9% of its total length. The minimum medio-lateral diameter of the radius was consistently 1-5 mm less than 40% of its minimum circumference. There was no significant dimensional difference between sides but gender difference existed in all measurements (p < 0.001), except the maximum harvested length of the radius. Conclusion: The present study may be helpful to guide reconstructive surgeons for safer harvesting of the radius using the osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap to repair orofacial defects.