Clinical application of a free flap supplied by the osteocutaneous branch of the anterior interosseous artery.

[OBJECTIVES] To explore the clinical application and efficacy of transplantation of free composite flaps supplied by radial osteocutaneous branch of the dorsal branch of the anterior interosseous artery for reconstructing bone and skin defects in the hand.

[MATERIAL AND METHODS] Anatomically, the radial osteocutaneous branch of the dorsal branch of the anterior interosseous artery has constant collateral anastomoses which can provide a large dorsoradial flap from the dorsum of the forearm. This flap was used for reconstruction in five cases of cutaneous and phalangeal defects.

[RESULTS] Reconstruction was successful in all five cases, with consolidated phalanx and good cosmetic results. All donor sites could be closed directly.

[CONCLUSION] Reconstruction with dorsoradial forearm flaps is a reliable procedure which causes minimal trauma. Thus, it is an ideal approach for repairing cutaneous and phalangeal defects.