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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

The Transition to an Anterior-Based Muscle Sparing Approach Improves Early Postoperative Function but is Associated with a Learning Curve
Published on: September 7, 2022
Transsciatic foramen pedicle VRAM coverage of gluteal defects
Nho V Tran1, Franklin H Sim, David G Lewallen
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. tran.nho@mayo.edu
Abstract:
Tumors of the gluteal region are rare. Defects from resection often can be closed primarily. Some patients require local flaps such as a gluteus maximus V-Y advancement flap. Such flaps typically result in some muscle dysfunction. In addition, the use of local irradiated tissue may lead to wound complications and prolonged hospitalization. Avoiding local radiated tissue, such as the gluteal muscles, can be beneficial. We report our experience using a novel route by passage through the transsciatic foramen to transpose a pedicle vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. This regional option avoids gluteal muscle dysfunction and potential wound complication from irradiated tissue.