A fasciocutaneous flap based on the radial forearm (Chinese flap) is classified by the Mathes and Nahai classification as which type?

• A Type I — single pedicle
• B Type II — dominant pedicle with minor pedicles
• C Type V — dominant pedicle with secondary segmental pedicles ✓
• D Type III — two dominant pedicles

Explanation

The Mathes and Nahai classification applies to muscle/myocutaneous flaps based on vascular patterns. The radial forearm flap (fasciocutaneous) is supplied by the radial artery (dominant pedicle) with perforators along the intermuscular septum — analogous to Type V pattern. For fasciocutaneous flaps, Cormack and Lamberty classify them differently (Type A direct cutaneous, B septocutaneous, C musculocutaneous perforators). The radial forearm is a reliable septocutaneous perforator flap used for head and neck, hand, and urogenital reconstruction.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.