Superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap on extremity defects - case series

Reconstruction of upper and lower extremity defects can be challenging. Especially in distal parts, relatively thin flaps are needed not to interfere with the function or aesthetic appearance of the extremity. The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap represents a powerful but still not so commonly used tool for this kind of reconstruction. In this article, we present several cases of the use of the SCIP flap for extremity defect coverage.

We present five cases (three men and two women) of upper or lower extremities defect coverage with a SCIP flap performed between January and June 2021 at our department. The mean age of the patients was 43 years (28-67 years). The body mass index was 28.6 on average. Two defects were located on hands and three defects on lower extremities. In three cases, the cause of the defect was trauma, and in the remaining two, it was a tumor resection. The mean thickness of the flap was 9.4 mm. We experienced no total flap loss and no revision surgery for ischemia or congestion was needed. One of the patients developed marginal flap necrosis, which was corrected by necrectomy and direct skin closure.

Our case series demonstrates the possible use of the SCIP flap in the reconstruction of upper and lower extremities. With its thinness, low donor-site morbidity, and ease of harvest, we recommend the SCIP flap to be considered as one of the primary reconstructive options for various extremities defects.