J Reconstr Microsurg 2009; 25(3): 181-189
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1103507
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Inferolateral Extension of the Groin Flap Based on the Artery Accompanying the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve

Katsuhiko Kashiwa1 , Seiichiro Kobayashi1 , Kazuhito Ogino1 , Gen Kashiwaya1 , Hirofumi Higuchi1
  • 1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
26 November 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

The authors reconstructed hand defects using a new type of the extended groin flap in two patients. The extended portion includes the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) and the artery accompanying the LFCN (LFCA). Circulation to the extended portion was maintained by the communicating branches between the LFCA and the superficial circumflex iliac artery (SCIA). The flap was used as a pedicle flap in one patient and as a free flap in the other patient. The extended portion was elevated as an island flap based on LFCA in the latter. These flaps, including the extended portion, were transferred successfully. We have already reported use of the inferior extension of the groin flap based on the descending branch of the SCIA, in 2002. However, the extension technique described here is a different type of extension, due to the use of a different nutrient vessel. We believe that this new technique increases the usefulness of the groin flap.

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Katsuhiko KashiwaM.D. 

Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Iwate Medical University

Faculty of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka 020-8505, Japan

Email: kkashiwa@iwate-med.ac.jp

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