Microdissection Thinning of a Pedicled Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap for Burn Scar Contracture of the Groin: Case Report

Abstract

A severe burn scar contracture of the groin in a 25-year-old woman was successfully reconstructed with microdissection and thinning of a pedicled deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. This perforator flap is a relatively thin cutaneous flap, but may still require secondary defatting procedures, especially when used for coverage of mobile anatomic areas such as the groin and axilla. A deep inferior epigastric perforator flap was radically thinned by excising the subcutaneous fatty layer very carefully under loupe magnification, to preserve the subdermal vascular plexus. One year after surgery, the patient can abduct and rotate the hip freely without limitation.