ANATOMICAL STUDY ON THE ORIGIN, COURSE, AND DIMENSIONS OF THE INFERIOR GLUTEAL ARTERY: APPLICATIONS IN MUSCULOCUTANEOUS FLAP DESIGN
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Abstract
Objective: To investigate the origin, anatomical course, dimensions, and branching patterns of the inferior gluteal artery (IGA) in the adult Vietnamese population to provide an anatomical basis for reconstructive flap design. Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 30 gluteal specimens from 15 formalin-preserved cadavers. A comprehensive dissection of the gluteal region was performed. Precise measurements were obtained using digital calipers (0.02 mm accuracy). The Posterior Superior Iliac Spine (PSIS), Ischial Tuberosity (IT), and Greater Trochanter (GT) were utilized as primary bony landmarks for vascular localization. Results: In 86.7% of cases (26/30 specimens), the IGA exhibited a typical origin from the internal iliac artery, exiting the pelvic cavity through the infrapiriform foramen. The mean diameter at the origin was mm, with a main trunk length of cm. The artery predominantly divided into an ascending branch (supplying the gluteus maximus) and a descending branch (supplying the posterior thigh). Notably, significant cutaneous perforators (designated as MX1 and MX2) were consistently identified within the lower-outer third of the gluteal region. Conclusion: The inferior gluteal artery possesses a substantial diameter and a relatively constant anatomical course in its typical presentation. These findings suggest the IGA is a reliable vascular pedicle for the design and elevation of musculocutaneous or Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator (IGAP) flaps in reconstructive surgery.
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Keywords
Inferior gluteal artery, IGAP flap, anatomy, reconstructive surgery
References
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