Physiological differences for distinct somatic sensory modalities and sweating among the donor sites of cutaneous and fasciocutaneous free flaps.

ABSTRACT

Differences of sensation and sweating among the typical sites of cutaneous and fasciocutaneous flaps (scapular, lateral arm, radial forearm, groin and dorsalis pedis) were assessed in 30 healthy volunteers (20 males and 10 females) aged 17-62 years (mean 38.2 years). Standard clinical methods were used Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments for testing light touch threshold, discriminator and blunt caliper for evaluation of static and dynamic two-point discrimination and the Marstock quantitative method for assessing the normative values of warm-cold difference limen and heat and cold pain thresholds. Spontaneous sweat secretion was observed and documented by the ninhydrin test. We established various physiological differences for distinct somatic sensory modalities and sweating among the body regions (donor sites of cutaneous and fasciocutaneous free flaps).