Abstract

GAGNON, A. R.  and  BLONDEEL, P. N.. Deep and superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps. Cir. plást. iberolatinoam. [online]. 2006, vol.32, n.4, pp.243-258. ISSN 1989-2055.

Following the development of the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap, the lower abdomen has been recognized as a prime source of high quality autogenous tissue, especially useful in breast reconstruction. More recently, the ability to harvest a similar adipocutaneous component without sacrifice of the rectus muscle has revolutionized the field of reconstructive surgery. The advent of perforator flaps has allowed plastic surgeons to achieve the same highly esthetic results as with the former myocutaneous flaps while significantly decreasing the donor site morbidity. With the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap and the superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap becoming more mainstream, patients are increasingly seeking these reconstructive options. This article reviews the surgical anatomy of the abdominal wall as related to the SIEA and DIEP flaps. Key steps of preoperative preparation, operative technique and postoperative care are explained in details. Specific advantages and disadvantages are discussed and technical tips are presented to help improve final outcome. In addition, typical and atypical indications are illustrated with the use of clinical cases.

Keywords : Perforator Flaps; DIEP flaps; SIEA flaps; Anatomy.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in English | Spanish     · English ( pdf ) | Spanish ( pdf )