Abstract:

Objective　To study the anatomical basis of vascularized flap from the volar aspect of the wrist to repair soft tissue defects in the finger.　Methods　Twenty upper limb specimens were dissected and observed under operating microscope. Two specimens were made into casting mould of artery with bones, Eighteen specimens were injected with red 1atex in radial artery. The origin, distribution and anastomosis of the vessels, nerves and tendens in the volar aspect of the wrist were oberserved.　Results　The superficial palmar branch of the radial artery constantly existed, and it was the main nutrient vessel of the wrist volar skin. There were about 2 to 5 branches between the origin and the tubercle of the scaphoid bone. The diameter was (1.25±0.24) mm at the origin, which was similar to the digital arteries .The venous return of wrist volar skin passed through two routes, and the innervations of the wrist volar skin derived mainly from the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve.The area of the flap with blood supply from the volar aspect of the wrist was 2cm×(4.42±0.58)cm.　Conclusion　 The traditional skin donor site from the volar aspect of the wrist can be applied as a free composite tissue flap pedicled by the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery to repair soft tissue defects in the finger.

Key words: Superficial palmar branch of the radial artery, Skin grafting, Free grafting, Applied anatomy, Wrist