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J Reconstr Microsurg 2015; 31(09): 631-635
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1558959
Original Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Reconstruction of Moderate-Sized Distal Limb Defects using a Superthin Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator Flap

Jong Hwan Kim
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Eulji University Hospital, University of Eulji College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
,
Kyu Nam Kim
2   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
,
Chi Sun Yoon
2   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

30 January 2015

10 May 2015

Publication Date:
28 July 2015 (online)

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Abstract

Background When using groin flaps the scars can be easily covered. However, disadvantages including short pedicle lengths, anatomical variations in the vessels, and flap bulkiness, have prevented their widespread use. We examined the use of superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) free flaps to moderate-sized defects in the distal extremities.

Methods From July 2011 to August 2014, 52 patients underwent reconstructions using SCIP free flaps for moderate-sized defects in the distal upper and lower extremities. We measured the flap sizes and the thicknesses and pedicle lengths.

Results The mean flap size was 75 cm2. The flaps were up to 7 cm wide as all donor sites underwent primary closure. The mean flap thickness was 5 mm, and mean pedicle length was 4.5 cm. Two cases showed total necrosis, and two cases showed partial losses in the flap margins. Among the two cases with partial necrosis, one case was managed using conservative treatment without surgery, whereas the other case underwent secondary skin-graft surgery.

Conclusion We reconstructed moderate-sized defects in the distal upper and lower extremities using SCIP flaps, and observed that SCIP flaps have several advantages. After applying thin flaps to the defects, the contour of the flap site appeared symmetrical and natural when compared with the uninjured contralateral side of the distal limb, and no debulking surgery was required. No complications were observed at donor sites, and the surgical scars were well concealed by underwear.

Keywords

distal extremities - SCIP - superficial facial plane - freestyle approach - supermicrosurgery