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Superior Gluteal Artery Perforators

perforantes arteriae gluteae superioris

The superior gluteal artery exits the greater sciatic foramen above the piriformis and divides into superficial and deep branches supplying the gluteus maximus and the overlying skin through multiple musculocutaneous perforators. The dominant perforators for SGAP flap harvest emerge approximately 6-8 cm along a line from the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) to the greater trochanter.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The SGAP (superior gluteal artery perforator) flap provides well-vascularised gluteal skin and subcutaneous fat for autologous breast reconstruction when abdominal donor sites are unavailable or unsuitable (prior abdominoplasty, thin patients). Pre-operative MRI angiography or CTA maps the dominant perforator locations. The flap provides adequate volume for moderate breast reconstruction but requires perforator dissection through gluteus maximus muscle. The donor scar lies in the upper buttock crease.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

SGAP Flap Harvest for Breast Reconstruction

The SGAP flap elevated on a superior gluteal artery perforator traced through the gluteus maximus provides gluteal skin and fat for breast reconstruction with minimal donor site morbidity; the dominant perforator is mapped pre-operatively and the flap is anastomosed to the internal mammary or thoracodorsal vessels.