Anatomical Background of the Perforator Flap Based on the Deep Branch of the Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery (SCIP Flap): A Cadaveric Study

BACKGROUND The groin flap, based on the superficial circumflex iliac artery, was the first successful free flap. However, its popularity was lost essentially due to variable arterial anatomy. Clinical applications of perforator flap based on superficial circumflex iliac artery suggest that a dominant perforator based on his deep branch is enough to supply a large groin flap. METHODS Fresh cadaveric dissections were performed and the perforators of Sartorius based on the deep branch of superficial circumflex iliac artery were identified. The dominant perforator was isolated and injected selectively with methylene blue solution. RESULTS We performed 20 dissections of superficial circumflex iliac artery and the deep branch. We found a deep branch with 2 perforators penetrating the Sartorius muscle. The diameter of the dominant perforator of the deep branch was 0.85 mm on average and the mean injected skin area was 162 cm(2). CONCLUSIONS These findings are in agreement with early clinical suggestion. The dominant musculocutaneous perforator of the deep branch of superficial circumflex iliac artery provides constant and reliable blood supply to ensure a relatively large perforator groin flap.