Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026
Two-Dimensional X-Ray Angiography to Examine Fine Vascular Structure Using a Silicone Rubber Injection Compound
Published on: January 7, 2019
Venous Drainage Pattern of Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Perforator (SCIP) Flap: Implications for Surgical
Hyung Hwa Jeong1, Warangkana Tonaree2, Hyun Il Kang3
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Bucheon, Republic of Korea.
Background:
The superficial circumflex iliac artery (SCIA) perforator (SCIP) flap is widely used in reconstructive surgery due to its low donor site morbidity and favorable scar concealment. This research aims to describe the venous anatomy and drainage of the SCIP flap to enhance preoperative planning and improve surgical outcomes.
Methods:
This investigation included both cadaveric and clinical studies. The cadaveric study involved 17 fresh cadavers, excluding those with prior groin surgery. Heated saline contrast solution was injected into the femoral vein to facilitate the visualization of the venous system of the SCIP flap. The clinical study involved 64 patients who underwent groin flap harvesting from September 2019 to February 2021. Preoperative venous patterns were assessed using computed tomography angiography and duplex ultrasound, while intraoperative findings were recorded by a senior surgeon.
Results:
In the cadaveric study, the SCIV and accompanying venae comitantes (VC) were observed in 22 out of 30 specimens. The SCIV was classified into two types according to its connection with the VC. In the present clinical study, three perioperative complications were encountered, namely two total flap losses and one minor hematoma, with no evidence of venous congestion.
Conclusions:
The venous drainage patterns of the groin flap can be classified into distinct types, aiding surgeons in the planning and design of SCIP flaps to enhance surgical precision. Understanding the reciprocal dominance between SCIA and superficial inferior epigastric artery systems enhances the reliability of groin flaps, making them a versatile choice for reconstructive surgery.CLINICAL QUESTION / LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, III.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Veins of Lower Limbs
Formed by the union of the medial and lateral plantar veins, the posterior tibial vein, rising through the calf muscle, assimilates the fibular vein. The anterior tibial vein, a superior extension of the foot's dorsalis pedis vein, merges with the posterior tibial vein at the...
01:18Veins of the Abdomen and Pelvis
The inferior vena cava is fed by numerous smaller veins. The lumbar veins, for instance, drain the posterior abdominal wall, emptying both directly into the inferior vena cava and into the...
01:17Veins of Upper Limbs
The deep venous system is primarily composed of the ulnar and radial veins. The ulnar vein, which drains the fingers through the superficial palmar venous arches, and the radial vein, which serves the palms via the deep palmar...
01:11Overview of Systemic Veins
The coronary sinus, the heart's principal vein, resides in the coronary sulcus on the heart's posterior aspect. This broad venous channel receives nearly all venous blood from the myocardium, the heart muscle. It is fed by three primary veins: the great cardiac vein, the...