RECONSTRUCTION OF PALATE WITH RADIAL FOREARM FLAP - A REPORT OF 3 CASES

A prosthesis is the preferred method for the closure of a palatal defect following maxillectomy, with fairly satisfactory results. However, some patients suffer from symptoms due to mismatch of the prosthesis. We have reconstructed palatal defects using radial forearm flaps in 3 cases. The forearm flap is utilised for palatal reconstruction in the double-folded form. The flap is thin and pliable, there are no problems in regard to bulk and drooping of the flap, and the patients can wear the denture with minimal discomfort. We believe that reconstruction of the palate with a forearm flap is a useful procedure, especially for patients suffering from symptoms due to mismatch of the prosthesis. © 1990 The Trustees of British Association of Plastic Surgeons. All rights reserved.