ABSTRACT
Macroscopic and radiographic observations of the area around the rectus abdominis
muscle were made by cadaver dissection to confirm the vascular patterns of the superior
and inferior epigastric arteries. The superior epigastric artery was observed to penetrate
the posterior sheath at the middle of the xiphoid process and the anterior sheath
at the middle of the upper third of the upper abdomen. The inferior epigastric artery
penetrates the posterior sheath near the middle of the lower abdomen. It also penetrates
the anterior sheath in an area ranging from the upper third of the lower abdomen to
the umbilicus. These arteries anastomose at the lower third of the upper abdomen.
This information is useful for planning and implementing vertical fasciocutaneous
flaps in the abdomen or for any other flaps considered in that area.