P11: Autologous Breast Reconstruction Using the Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap Revisited

INTRODUCTION: In 1989, the first superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap for breast reconstruction was performed at Charity Hospital (New Orleans). Initially, the SIEA flap was greeted with tempered enthusiasm because the pedicle diameter and length were small.A more technically challenging microsurgical scenario was encountered compared to free TRAM/DIEP flaps.The advantages of the flap included 1) preservation of the abdominal muscle/fascia integrity similar to an abdominoplasty and 2) perfusion of ample skin and fat for breas