Maximizing the Versatility of Thin Flap from the Groin Area as a Workhorse Flap: The Selective Use of Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator (SCIP) Free Flap and Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery (SIEA) Free Flap with Precise Preoperative Planning

Propeller flap's assisted recipient site closure after free SCIP flap coverage of medial ankle defect: A case report

Defects in the distal lower limbs are common in the field of orthoplastic reconstruction. The ankle area presents little subcutaneous tissue and is often affected by high-energy traumas and bone fractures. Wounds in this region are frequently associated with severe edema that might prevent primary closure. Due to its thinness and tension, the skin overlying both the medial and lateral malleoli is prone to necrosis, which can further lead to large soft tissue defects. Vessels, nerves, and tendons can easily become exposed. The reconstructive approach should aim to provide high-quality tissue that is durable enough to withstand the weight-bearing pressures and the friction from shoes, while remaining sufficiently elastic to conform to the shape of the ankle and to permit the foot movement. In this study, we describe the use of an additional propeller flap to reduce skin tension at the recipient site. A superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap was utilized to cover a defect below the medial malleolus. However, after flap inset, achieving a primary closure of the proximal wound without tension was not possible. During the dissection of the posterior tibial artery, perforator vessels were identified and preserved. The larger of these vessels was then used to vascularize a propeller flap, which was then rotated toward the defect to aid a tension-free closure. The postoperative course was uneventful. This case may provide a valuable insight into the challenges often faced during wound closure, even after flap inset. Since the flap itself may increase the width of the dissection area, the present case shows the importance of preserving perforator vessels during the proximal dissection since they can allow the harvest of an additional flap to achieve primary closure and further alleviate tension.

Lymphatic Patterns in the Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator Flap

BACKGROUND

 Lymphedema is a chronic condition, characterized by fluid buildup and tissue swelling and is caused by impairment of the lymphatic system. The lymph interpositional flap transfer technique, in which lymph flow is restored with a flap that includes subdermal lymphatic channels, is an option for surgical reconstruction. The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap can be used for this purpose. This study aimed to describe and characterize the lymphatic patterns within the vascular territory of the SCIP flap.

METHODS

 This cross-sectional multicenter study involved 19 healthy volunteers aged ≥18 years of both sexes assessing the bilateral SCIP flap zone. Superficial lymphatic patterns were evaluated at 4-, 14-, and 24 minutes after indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography injection. Standardized procedures were implemented for all participants in both hospitals.

RESULTS

 The linear pattern was predominant bilaterally. The median number of lymphatic vessels and their length increased over time. Most lymphatic vessels in the SCIP flap were oriented toward the inguinal lymph node (ILN). However, the left SCIP zone lymphatic vessels were directed opposite to the ILN.

CONCLUSION

 The two sides SCIP zones were not significantly different. The primary direction of the bilateral lymphatic vessels was toward the ILN, although only single-side lymphatic vessels were in the opposite direction. These findings emphasize the importance of assessing lymphatic axiality and coherent lymphatic patterns prior to undertaking the SCIP as an interposition flap, to ensure effective restoration of lymphatic flow.

Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap: Vascular Pattern and Territory Across the Midline

BACKGROUND

 Superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap offers a significant advantage of lower donor site morbidity over other abdominal-based flaps for breast reconstruction. However, the inconsistent anatomy and territory across the midline remains a major issue. This study aimed to investigate the SIEA and determine its pattern and territory across the midline.

METHODS

 Twenty cadavers were studied. Ipsilateral dye was injected to the dominant SIEA. Dissection was performed to evaluate the SIEA origin, artery and vein pattern, vessel diameter, and dye diffusion territory.

RESULTS

 Overall, three SIEA patterns were identified: bilateral presence (45%), ipsilateral presence (30%), and bilateral absence (25%). The territory depended on the vessel course and dominant SIEA diameter, not on its common origin from the femoral artery, at the pubic tubercle level. Regarding the midline territory (pubic tubercle level to umbilicus), SIEA (type 1a) with a diameter of ≥1.4 mm on either side supplied at least half the distance, whereas SIEA with a diameter of <1 mm was limited to the suprapubic area.

CONCLUSION

 Designing a SIEA flap island across the midline is feasible when contralateral SIEA is present to augment the contralateral territory (e.g., type 1a SIEA) or in SIEA with a common/superficial external pudendal artery origin. Preoperative imaging studies are important for confirming the SIEA system. When the diameter at the origin of the SIEA flap is larger than 1.4 mm, the blood supply to the ipsilateral and contralateral sides is sufficient to enable safe flap elevation.