The abdominohypogastric flap--an axial pattern flap for forearm coverage

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Vascular Anatomy

Background:

• Reconstruction of forearm defects presents challenges in achieving adequate tissue coverage.
• Axial pattern flaps offer reliable vascular supply for tissue transfer.

Observation:

• Two patients with forearm defects were treated using the abdominohypogastric flap.
• The superficial inferior epigastric artery's course was mapped using Doppler ultrasound.

Findings:

• The abdominohypogastric flap, utilizing the deep and superficial inferior epigastric arteries, successfully resurfaced forearm defects in both patients.
• Doppler guidance ensured the inclusion of relevant superficial inferior epigastric artery branches in the flap base.

Implications:

• This technique provides a viable option for forearm reconstruction.
• Preoperative Doppler mapping of the superficial inferior epigastric artery is crucial for successful flap elevation and perfusion.