title: Utility of the inferior gluteal vessels in free flap coverage of sacral wounds.
abstract: An improved technique for gaining access to the inferior gluteal vessels is presented. This method allows rapid isolation of these vessels, preservation of greater pedicle length, and improved access for the performance of microsurgery. The innervation and function of the gluteus maximus is also preserved. We believe the use of this technique makes the inferior gluteal vessels the receptor vessels of choice for microsurgical procedures in the sacral area. An illustrative patient is presented in whom these vessels were used for a combined serratus anterior-latissimus dorsi free muscle flap for sacral wound coverage.
authors: Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of California, San Francisco.
authors: J P
authors: JP
authors: Anthony
authors: E
authors: E
authors: Ritter
authors: B R
authors: BR
authors: Moelleken
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002081:Buttocks / Q000098:blood supply*; D005402:Fistula / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000379:methods; D009132:Muscles / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000637:transplantation*; D012446:Sacroiliac Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000379:methods* / Q000473:pathology; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence / Q000601:surgery