Versatility of Gluteal Arteries Perforator Flaps for Local Coverage Relative to Defect Size, Site, and Different Pathological Conditions

Abstract

Background: Superior and inferior gluteal artery perforator flaps have evolved in the last few decades for both free and local tissue transfer because of having the advantages of being voluminous with a relatively inconspicuous donor site. Therefore focusing on the details of such a reconstructive procedure would be of importance when thinking of skin defect coverage in the lower back, gluteal, and upper thigh areas. Patients and methods: This study was done on 14 cases, 10 of them had defects due to pressure sores, and 4 cases due to other inflammatory and neoplastic conditions. All cases were done by the same surgical team with a follow up period ranging from 2 to 18 months. Results: Thirteen out fourteen flaps (92%) passed completely and uneventfully with no need for additional surgery throughout eighteen months of follow up. However, two cases developed wound dehiscence that required secondary sutures to one of them, two cases developed seroma, and one case developed partial flap loss which re-advanced by V-Y technique.Conclusion: The superior and inferior gluteal artery perforator flaps are versatile reconstructive coverage option for gluteal defects of different size, site and pathology. They are easy to perform; suitable for large defect reconstruction of the lower back, buttock, and upper thigh areas.