Reversed neurofasciocutaneous flaps based on the superficial branches of the radial nerve

Soft-tissue reconstruction of the hand needs to cover the vital structures with flaps, It is usually difficult to maintain function and form with mini mal morbidity. Local tissue is preferable but it is also very valuable. Esp ecially in the distal part of the upper extremity, flap coverage is a chall enging problem because of limited reconstructive alternatives. On the dorsu m of the hand, flaps can be designed based on the paraneural vascular netwo rk of:the cutaneous sensory nerves. These paraneural vascular networks send branches to the surrounding tissues. The branches to the skin are known as neurocutaneous perforators. The authors used eight reversed neurofasciocut aneous flaps based on the superficial branches of the radial nerve, Six fla ps were based on the branch to the index finger and two flaps were based on the branch to the thumb. All flaps survived completely, and successful fla p coverage was achieved in all patients with minimal morbidity.