Aesthetic and functional outcomes of radial forearm flap donor site reconstruction with biosynthetic skin substitutes

The radial forearm fasciocutaneous flap (RFFF) is a workhorse flap in reconstructive microsurgery that is favoured for its thinness, reliable vascularity, consistent anatomy, and ability to be harvested concurrently during oncologic resection (1). Despite its popularity, RFFF elevation may lead to wound healing complications, wrist stiffness, weakened grip, sensory impairment, and a visible, potentially stigmatizing forearm scar (2). Various strategies have been investigated to reduce donor site morbidity, including suprafascial dissection, full thickness skin grafting, primary closure with local flaps, and the use of alternative flaps (3).