When an area of the mouth or throat is damaged by cancer, injury, or another medical condition, healthy tissue may be needed to rebuild it. A radial forearm free flap uses skin and soft tissue from your forearm, along with its blood vessels, to help reconstruct areas such as the tongue, mouth, or throat. Because the tissue comes from your own body, it can heal and become a living part of the reconstructed area.
Swipe through the images below to see how it works!
It’s important to note that every patient’s recovery is different. Your surgical team will give you instructions based on your specific procedure and needs.
During the first few days after surgery, your care team will closely monitor the flap to make sure blood is flowing properly. They may check its color, warmth, and blood flow using specialized monitoring techniques.
After a radial forearm free flap, your body is healing in two places: the area being reconstructed and the forearm where the tissue was taken. Your care team will monitor both areas and provide instructions for wound care, pain control, and caring for your donor site.
Your arm may need to be elevated and protected while it heals. Movement and activity will be increased gradually, with your care team guiding you on when and how to safely use your arm and hand. Physical therapy may be part of your recovery.
Recovery continues after you leave the hospital. Follow-up visits allow your surgical team to check your healing and answer questions along the way. Over time, swelling and discomfort improve, the donor site heals, and you gradually return to more of your normal activities.
How long is the surgery? Most commonly around 6–12 hours, depending on the surgery and individual case complexity.
How long is the hospital stay? This is different for every patient and depends on the type of reconstruction and recovery. Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for about 7–10 days, depending on the type of reconstruction and how recovery progresses.
Your surgical team will let you know what to expect.
Where does the tissue come from? The forearm, usually using skin and soft tissue along with the blood vessels that supply it.
Will the blood vessels be reconnected? Yes! Tiny blood vessels are connected under a microscope so blood can flow through the flap and keep the tissue healthy.
Will I still be able to use my arm? Yes! Most people can return to using their arm after recovery. Your care team will guide you as your arm heals and you gradually return to normal activities.
Will there be scarring? Yes. There will be a scar on the forearm where the flap was taken. Depending on how the donor site is closed, you may also have a skin graft, which can leave an additional scar.