Abstract:

Objective　To provide anatomic basis for the intermediate femoral neurocutaneous flap pedicled with the vastus medialis perforators.　Methods　30 embalmed lower limb specimens from adult cadavers perfused with red latex were used for this anatomical study. The midpoint of patella and adductor tubercle were used as observation points, for the following exploration: ①The course and distribution of the intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve；②Anastomosis between the vastus medialis perforators and the nutrient vessels of the intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve. Simulated operation was performed on one side of fresh specimen.　Results　①The line between the midpoint of inguinal ligament and the midpoint of the patella-adductor tubercle line which between the midpoint of the patella and adductor tubercle can be considered as the projection on body surface of the anterior branch of intermedial femoral cutaneous nerve. ②The location of vastus medialis perforators was nearly at the midpoint of the line between the midpoint of patella and the one thirds of the line between the midpoint of inguinal ligament and the adductor tendon, about (9.4±2.4)cm above the adductor tendon and (4.1±1.0)cm interiorly of the inner of the vertical line of the middle patella. The vastus medials perforators pierced through the deep fascia and gave off large number of small blood vessels, which closely aligned with the nutrient vessels of intermediate cutaneous nerve, and then formed vascular plexus in the anteromedial part of thigh along the intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve.　Conclusions　The intermediate femoral neurocutaneous flap pedicled with vastus medialis perforators can be developed to repair soft tissue defects around knee joint.

Key words: Vastus medialis perforators, Intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve, Neurocutaneous flap, Repair