Cai T, Chen S, Li Q, Fang Z, Cao H, Xie Z, Liu N, Li Y, Ye X, Li J, Fan S. The Tai Chi Flap: A Novel Design for the Radial Forearm Flap.
Ann Plast Surg 2022;
89:59-62. [PMID:
35502975 DOI:
10.1097/sap.0000000000003149]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Tai Chi is an ancient philosophy used to explain the universe. The Tai Chi symbol is represented by Yin/Yang fishes. The authors describe a novel radial forearm flap (RFF) design for the reconstruction of circular defects based on the Tai Chi symbol.
METHODS
Eleven consecutive patients with craniofacial skin or mucus defects underwent reconstruction with a Tai Chi RFF. Patient perioperative and follow-up information was collected.
RESULTS
The diameter of the Tai Chi RFF was 5 to 6 cm. All flaps healed uneventfully without ischemic problems, and all donor site defects were closed primarily without skin grafts. Remarkably, 2 patients received a tattoo to mark the Tai Chi symbol and greatly appreciate the shape of the flap.
CONCLUSIONS
The Tai Chi flap is an economically friendly flap design that can be used to prevent skin grafts while providing psychological comfort to patients.
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