[Inferior gluteal artery perforator flap: anatomical study for its application in breast reconstruction]

Purpose: The inferior gluteal artery perforator flap, which is vascularised by perforator branches of the inferior gluteal artery (formerly ischiatic artery) is harvested in the gluteal crease. The purpose of this anatomical study was to clarify the anatomical features of this flap and locate the perforators of the inferior gluteal artery destined to the flap, in view to facilitate its surgical removal, as free flap for breast reconstruction.

Materials and method: We performed 12 dissections on fresh cadavers, after selective injection of the inferior gluteal artery with a gelified solution. During harvesting, we located the perforators which arise from the inferior gluteal artery and perfuse the flap.

Results: We distinguished four zones, defined relatively to anatomical landmarks of the region, according to the frequency of perforators.

Conclusion: This anatomical study makes possible an improvement of the technique to raise this flap in its free shape with view to use it for breast autologus reconstruction especially given its numerous advantages: a constant volume of fat even in thin patients and minimal donor site morbidity.