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Updated: Oct 5, 2026

In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Published on: June 8, 2013
[Anatomical study and clinical applications of the tensor fascia lata myocutaneous flap]
Objective:
To explore the causes of blood circulation problems in 3 of 6 cases of pedicled tensor fascia lata myocutaneous flap transferring.
Methods:
Anatomical study was performed on 16 cadavers (32 sides) after red emulsion injection.
Results:
On 22 sides of 12 cadavers, the nutrient arteries lie in the muscle; on 2 sides of 2 cadavers, intramuscular nutrient arteries coexist with the big branches anterior to the muscle; on 4 sides of 3 cadavers, intramuscular nutrient arteries coexist with the big branches in the loose connective tissue deep to the muscle; on 4 sides of 3 cadavers, the nutrient arteries locate in the subcutaneous layer. According to the anatomical observations, much attention were paid to protect the vessels deep, superficial and anterior to the muscle during surgery, which resulted in successful clinical applications in 8 cases.
Conclusions:
The supplying arteries of the tensor fascia lata myocutaneous flap may exit not only intramuscularly, but also deep, superficial and anterior to the muscle. Special attention should be paid to them during operation.
