ABSTRACT
Fifteen cases with radial forearm flap harvesting and autologous vein-graft reconstruction
of the missing radial artery portion, are reported. Post-repair follow-up examinations,
using segment plethysmog-raphy, photoplethysmography, and Doppler ultrasound, demonstrated
an angiologic donor site morbidity, even when radial artery reconstruction was performed.
Typically diminished blood pressure occurred, in comparison with the contralateral
healthy extremity. Index shifting of pulse wave peaks, as well as widening of pulse
wave bases occurred, especially in the thumb and index finger. These latter findings
appear to be discrete indicators of arterial insufficiency.
