Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap for Breast Reconstruction

ABSTRACT

The superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap is reintroduced as an ideal flap for breast reconstruction. It combines reliable donor and recipient vessels, ease of the technique, and an ``acceptable donor scar.'' The advantages of the SIEA flap are the minimal donor site morbidity, a low scar, and an esthetically pleasing closure. The authors investigated the anatomy of the SIEA in 100 cadavers and reported the artery present in of 72% of groins. Since 1997, 81 reconstructions and 4 augmentations have been performed in 70 patients at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. The technique and the postoperative results are demonstrated.

KEYWORD

Superficial inferior epigastric artery flap - breast reconstruction - donor site morbidity - direct cutaneous artery flap - microsurgery

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