Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
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An Experimental Human DIEP Flap Model to Investigate Preservation Strategies for Vascularized Composite Allografts and Free Flaps
Published on: December 5, 2025
Breast reconstruction with gluteal artery perforator flaps
Jay W Granzow1, Joshua L Levine, Ernest S Chiu
1UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 465 Los Angeles, CA 90095-6960, USA.
Summary
The Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator (IGAP) and Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator (SGAP) flaps offer reliable buttock tissue transfer for breast reconstruction. IGAP flaps are preferred due to better donor site outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Perforator flaps are alternatives for breast cancer reconstruction.
- Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator (IGAP) and Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator (SGAP) flaps utilize buttock tissue.
- These flaps avoid muscle flap donor site morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate IGAP and SGAP flaps for breast reconstruction.
- To highlight the preference for IGAP flaps over SGAP flaps.
- To define contraindications for these reconstructive procedures.
Main Methods:
- IGAP and SGAP flaps are based on gluteal artery perforators.
- Perforators are dissected from the gluteus maximus muscle, preserving it.
- Vascular pedicles are anastomosed to chest recipient vessels; donor sites are closed primarily.
Main Results:
- IGAP and SGAP flaps enable safe and reliable tissue transfer from the buttock.
- The IGAP flap is preferred for improved donor site contour and scarring.
- Contraindications include prior liposuction or recent smoking.
Conclusions:
- IGAP and SGAP flaps are effective for breast reconstruction.
- They serve as alternatives to abdominal tissue transfer.
- These flaps can be a primary choice for selected patients.
