The lymphatics of the groin flap

This communication briefly discusses lymph-draining potentials and problems of skin flaps; describes specifically the lymphatics of the groin flap, an axial pattern flap; gives examples of its clinical application as a lymphatic wick; and explains its partial success and failure. The concept of axial pattern flaps was developed when the groin flap was described in 1972 by McGregor and Jackson. Attempts were subsequently made to delineate the extent of the vascular territories of these axial vessels. Although the flap was initially used as a pedicle flap, transfer of its vascular territory based on the axial vessels was soon undertaken, producing the so-called free flap. One desirable characteristic of this axial pattern flap was the remarkable absence of edema following elevation and transfer or transplantation to the new site. This stimulated one of us (L.C.) to review the lymph-draining potential of this flap.