Modified Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator Flap and Supermicrosurgery Technique for Lower Extremity Reconstruction

Abstract

The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap is an evolved form of groin flap. It overcomes the inherent disadvantages of the groin flap by preserving the deep fascia but still requires challenging skills because of short pedicles and small caliber of vessels. The use of SCIP flap was evaluated for lower extremity use.From June of 2009 to August of 2011, a total of 79 cases were performed (age range, 4-80 years) on the lower extremity using supermicrosurgical approach. All flaps were harvested above the deep fat and the pedicles were taken above or just below the deep fascia to reconstruct the defects throughout the lower extremity.Supermicrosurgery technique was used in 71 cases. A total of 75 cases were performed successfully; 1 case underwent revision but failed and 2 cases were lost within 2 days of surgery. Average size of the flap was 75.5 cm, thickness 7 mm, average length of pedicle was 5 cm, and the average caliber of artery was 0.7 mm. Donor sites were all closed primarily but complications were noted with 1 dehiscence and prolong drainage of lymphatics. Flaps provided good functional coverage and appearance. The average follow-up was 12 months.With the modification of elevating the flap on the superficial fascia, we can harvest a thin flap without additional debulking and avoid complications such as lymphorrhea. Furthermore, with the perforator to perforator or perforator to small distal vessel approach, we can apply this flap on all regions of the lower extremity overcoming the difficulties with short pedicle and small vessel caliber. In our hands, the modified SCIP flap is the flap of choice for small to moderate size defects in the lower extremity.