Preexpanded radial forearm free flap to the scalp

The radial forearm flap is a versatile tool for the reconstructive surgeon because of its thinness, durable skin quality, aesthetic match, and relative ease of dissection. This flap is an ideal candidate for reconstruction of head and neck defects. One of the drawbacks is its relative small size, which may limit its use in certain applications. We describe the preexpansion of the radial forearm flap for its use in covering a large scalp defect. Preexpansion of the radial forearm free flap enables the reconstructive surgeon to increase the size of the flap markedly without altering its neurovascular anatomic relationships. Also described is the unexpected benefit of a periprosthetic capsule that covers the flexor tendons of the forearm and acts as an excellent bed for a skin graft.