Simultaneous use of bilateral caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps for wound closure in a dog

A neutered male German shorthaired pointer sustained severe bite wounds to the left caudal flank and thigh area. Thorough wound lavage and debridement was performed immediately and also three days after presentation. Daily wound dressing resulted in the production of a mature granulation tissue bed. Prior to wound closure, colour flow Doppler ultrasonography was used to confirm blood flow through the right and left caudal superficial epigastric arteries and veins. Sixteen days after presentation, right and left caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps were simultaneously elevated to cover the defect. The right flap was elevated as an island flap, rotated 120 degrees and used to cover the caudodorsal aspect of the defect. The left flap was elevated and rotated dorsally to cover the cranioventral aspect of the defect. Ninety per cent wound coverage was achieved and flap survival was total. The donor site defect was closed primarily and no dehiscence occurred. Three months postsurgery, the entire defect was closed and limb function was normal.