ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Autologous breast reconstruction using the free DIEP flap is considered the gold standard for many reasons. Despite being potentially suitable for free flap reconstruction, a significant minority of patients are not candidates for abdominal-based techniques. Alternative types of free flaps may be appropriate for this group of patients and include the extended latissimus dorsi (ELD) flap or the buttock-based superior and inferior gluteal artery perforator (SGAP/IGAP) flaps. The recently popularized transverse myocutaneous gracilis (TMG) flap, which is based on the medial thigh, is another option, which has innate advantages for selected patients.
