Breast reconstruction using the free superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap

The lower abdominal wall has established itself as tissue that can mimic th e breast to a high degree. Attention has, therefore, turned to harvesting a nd transferring this tissue, but with minimal donor site morbidity. We repo rt on our experience with five transfers of this tissue based on the superf icial inferior epigastric (SIE) vessels., This technique negates the harves t of any rectus muscle and thus its advantages become immediately obvious. The anatomy is reviewed as well as the techniques used. The limitations of this technique relate to the pedicle. The pedicle is shorter than the deep inferior-epigastric (DIE) axis and presents itself on the anterior aspect o f the tissue. However, these limitations can be overcome with simple adjust ments.