The Deep Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator Flap for Breast Reconstruction: Un lambeau perforateur de l'artère iliaque circonflexe profonde pour la reconstruction mammaire. Issue 4 (November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Elzinga, Kate; Buchel, Edward
• Is Part Of: Plastic surgery. Volume 26:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 229
• Page End: 237
• Publication Date: 2018-11
• Subjects: autologous reconstruction -- breast reconstruction -- DCIA flap -- DIEP flap -- flow-through flap; Surgery, Plastic -- Periodicals; Surger, Plastic; Surgery, Plastic; Periodicals; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; 617.95005
• DOI: 10.1177/2292550318800329
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2292-5503

Abstract

Autologous breast reconstruction using abdominal-based perforator flaps produces excellent aesthetic results with minimal donor site morbidity. The superficial inferior epigastric artery and deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps reliably perfuse a hemi-abdomen, up to the anterior axillary line. Beyond this line laterally, the flank or "love handle" tissue is primarily perfused by the deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA) or secondarily by the superficial circumflex iliac artery. The flank tissue is a valuable addition to increase flap size when harvested with a DIEP flap or to provide vascularized tissue when the abdomen has been previously harvested. Harvesting the flank tissue in combination with the anterior abdominal tissue improves the contour of the trunk, accentuates the waist, and minimizes secondary revisions to excise prominent "dogears." The DCIA flap is a novel technique for breast reconstruction. In this article, we describe our technique, pearls and pitfalls, and early results.