[The reverse forearm flap pedicled with the ulnar branch of the ulnar artery].

OBJECTIVE

To introduce a new flap for the repair of soft tissue defects in the hand.

METHODS

The distally pedicled ulnar flap is based on the ascending branch of the upper-wrist cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery. The retrograde flow is ensured by the dorsal carpal arch via the descending branch.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2003, the flap was used to treat 8 cases of hand defects, including 3 dorsal defects, 2 palmar defects and 3 the first web defects. All flaps survived and the appearance was satisfactory.

CONCLUSIONS

The reverse forearm flap pedicled with the ulnar branch of the ulnar artery provides a long vascular pedicle. The donor site scar is aesthetically acceptable.