Radial Forearm Versus the Ulnar Forearm Free Flap

The radial forearm free flap and the ulnar forearm free flap are both well-described
procedures used for free tissue transfer in reconstructive surgery. Although forearm free
flaps are frequently performed, there is insufficient prospective data looking at the
morbidity of the radial compared to ulnar forearm free flaps. The goal of this research study
is to characterize the outcomes for each of these two flaps, and to determine if there is
surgical equipoise, or if one flap is better than the other.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Patients with planned forearm free flap reconstruction

- Patients who are deemed equal surgical candidates for radial forearm free flap and
ulnar forearm free flap reconstruction

- Preoperative Allen's test completed and passed

- Patients have the capacity to complete the informed consent process

Exclusion Criteria:

- Patients that are not candidates for a forearm flap based on their physiology

- Clinically evident peripheral neuropathy (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, leprosy)

- Patients requiring concurrent forearm bone for reconstruction

- Child, prisoner, or other vulnerable group