Semin Plast Surg 2002; 16(1): 035-044
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-22678
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap for Breast Reconstruction

Robert J. Allen1 , Andreas S. Heitland2
  • 1Department of Plastic Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA
  • 2Department of Plastic Surgery, Rheinisch-Westfälisch Technische Hochschule, University of Aachen, Germany
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Publikationsverlauf

Publikationsdatum:
22. März 2002 (online)

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.

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