[Double vascular pedicle iliac crest flap]

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Anatomy
• Microsurgery

Background:

• The iliac crest flap is a common choice for head and neck reconstructions.
• Vascularization relies on the deep circumflex iliac artery and vein (ACIP/VCIP).

Observation:

• This study details the first-time simultaneous use of both deep and superficial circumflex iliac vascular systems for iliac crest flaps.
• Dissections were performed on ten inguinal regions in five cadavers.
• Three patients underwent mandibular reconstruction using this microvascularized iliac crest osteocutaneous flap.

Findings:

• The technique demonstrated favorable outcomes in all three cases.
• This "supercharging" approach ensures skin flap perfusion and improves soft tissue arrangement.
• Donor site morbidity was reduced due to minimal harvesting of the internal oblique muscle.

Implications:

• This innovative technique is highly valuable for reconstructing complex maxillofacial defects.
• It offers an alternative to traditional methods requiring extensive vascular dissection and extra anastomosis.
• The approach potentially simplifies complex reconstructive procedures in head and neck surgery.