Clinical application of transverse incision technique in forearm flap harvesting and donor site reconstruction

[Objective:] To evaluate the impact of the transverse incision technique for harvesting forearm flaps on donor-site function and appearance. [Methods:] A total of twelve patients with oral and maxillofacial soft tissue defects who underwent forearm flap harvesting using the transverse subcutaneous tunnel technique at our hospital between July 2020 and July 2023 were included. Postoperative flap survival was observed. Six months after surgery, hand motor function (finger extension, fist clenching, wrist rotation, and flexion) and sensory function were assessed for any limitations or abnormalities. Patient satisfaction with the forearm donor-site appearance was evaluated through a self-reported questionnaire. [Results:] The flap survival rate was 100% (12/12). Two patients experienced numbness and tingling in the hand one week postoperatively, but symptoms resolved within three months. At 6-month postoperative follow-up, none of the patients exhibited motor or sensory dysfunction in the hand. Patients reported high satisfaction with the donor-site appearance, with an average satisfaction score of 8.9 on the questionnaire. [Conclusion:] The transverse incision technique for forearm flap harvesting ensures reliable flap viability without leaving long, conspicuous longitudinal scars. This method minimizes surgical trauma, shortens donor-site healing time, and represents a dependable approach for reconstructing oral and maxillofacial soft tissue defects.