[Modified incomplete sartorius muscle flap for femoral vessel protection]

In exceptional cases bleeding of the femoral arteries after surgical interventions in the inguinal area can occur and in some cases can result in critical consequences with potential loss of limbs or fatal outcome. To prevent complications, especially after radical oncological surgery, a muscle flap is inserted to protect the vessel. In most cases the sartorius muscle is used because of its proximity to the operation area. This muscle also has the ideal size and a reliable and predictable position of nerves and vessels. The method of an incomplete sartorius muscle flap has considerable advantages in comparison with the complete method. The case presented is an example of modification of an incomplete sartorius muscle flap, which has been successfully applied in our clinic for extended inguinal dissection.