A reassessment of the role of the radial forearm flap in upper extremity reconstruction.

Our understanding of the hemodynamic consequences of radial artery harvest to the upper extremity has changed our considerations when approaching soft tissue defects of the hand. A critical assessment of the donor site morbidity of radial forearm (and radial artery) harvest is necessary to discern the role this flap should have in our current and future reconstructive armamentarium. A review of the available data and discussion of its implications is provided.