Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator Free Flap for Reconstruction of Small or Medium Sized Defect on Lower Extremities

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: For reconstruction of lower extremity defects, various flaps can be used and the appropriate flap must be selected and applied according to the size of the defect. In particular, in cases where the defect size is small to moderate, thinner or smaller volume flaps are useful. The authors performed reconstruction of small to moderate defects on the lower extremities using superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator free flaps and are reporting the results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients underwent reconstruction of defects on lower extremity areas using superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator free flaps from July 2011 to July 2012 at this hospital. The flaps were elevated from above the deep fat layer, and, in all cases, the vessel diameter of the flaps was less than 1mm, with the exception of superficial vein that accompanied it. RESULTS: The mean follow up period was 4.46 months, and, despite a partial loss in the flap in two cases, there were no total losses. All donor sites were closed with primary closure, and there was no occurrence of complications, such as hematomas, seromas, or lymphorrheas. The patients were highly satisfied with the donor site scar since it could be masked by underwear. CONCLUSION: Compared to other flaps, superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator free flaps are thinner in thickness and smaller in volume, which results in a more natural contour of the recipient site after the operation. In addition, since the flap can be elevated from supra-deep fat layer, the operation time can be shortened, and lymphorrhea can be prevented, which in turn lessens donor-site morbidity.