The Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap for Coverage of Hand and Forearm Defects

Abstract

Large wounds of the hand and upper extremity require secure closure for protection of the underlying structures. The skin of the lower abdomen can be raised in a lenticular fashion, supported by the superficial inferior epigastric artery and veins and applied as a flap to wounds of the distal upper extremity. The flap demonstrates versatility in positioning, and the donor site can be closed in a linear fashion. Viability of this superficial inferior epigastric artery flap is demonstrated by the case reports.