The SCIP propeller flap: Versatility for reconstruction of locoregional defect^✰

Abdominopelvic defect is frequently a challenge. Several local flaps exist for this anatomical region, but sequelae of the donor site, particularly with regard to morbidity on the anterior abdominal wall, are frequent. Although the utility of the superficial circumflex iliac artery flap is well established in its free form as well as its pedicled form described by McGregor, the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) propeller flap is rarely reported. The purpose of this study is to highlight the possible range of locoregional coverage using the SCIP propeller flap.

Between 2012 and 2018, 72 SCIP flaps were made in the propeller version to cover locoregional defects of various etiologies in our units.

The dimensions of SCIP flaps were on average 20.2 cm long (9-39) by 8.2 cm wide (5-18). The average rotation angle was 163.3° (range 130-180). In sixteen patients, SCIP flaps were bilateral. In five cases, the reconstruction was combined with a contralateral Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) flap to cover a very large defect. Two SCIP flaps necrotized following global venous congestion and a TFL flap was performed in rescue. No complications appeared on the donor site and the patients did not have any functional complications related to the reconstruction. Particular care was taken to respect the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh.

The SCIP propeller flap provides a reliable and versatile method for reconstructing abdominoperineal defect, including the thigh root region to the trochanters with low donor site morbidity.