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The cutaneo-lymph node flap of the superficial circumflex artery
J Assouad1, C Becker, G Hidden
1Service de Chirurgie Thoracique, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, 20-40, rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France.
Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy : SRA
|August 29, 2002
Summary
A new study shows a free inguinal cutaneo-lymph node flap can help manage upper limb lymphoedema and chest wall damage after breast cancer treatment. This flap, supplied by the superficial circumflex iliac artery, offers a potential solution for these complex complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Breast cancer treatment can lead to upper limb lymphoedema and radiation-damaged chest wall.
- Inguinal lymph node autotransplantation is a recognized method for managing lymphoedema.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of a free inguinal cutaneo-lymph node flap for managing combined lymphoedema and chest wall damage.
- To anatomically define the vascular supply and surface area of this flap.
Main Methods:
- Anatomical study of a free inguinal cutaneo-lymph node flap.
- Identification of the superficial circumflex iliac artery as the vascular supply.
- Measurement of the vascularized skin area.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated feasibility of the free inguinal cutaneo-lymph node flap.
- Vascularized abdominal skin area ranged from 176 to 288 cm², with a total vascularized skin area up to 928 cm².
- Vascularization was primarily unilateral and did not extend widely beyond the abdominal midline.
Conclusions:
- The free inguinal cutaneo-lymph node flap is a viable option for simultaneous management of upper limb lymphoedema and chest wall damage post-breast cancer treatment.
- This flap provides a combination of skin and lymph nodes, addressing complex post-treatment complications.
- Further clinical evaluation may confirm its utility in reconstructive surgery for breast cancer survivors.