Objective To determine the anatomical basis of an algorithm to safely elevate the deep circumflex iliac artery osteocutaneous perforator (DCIAP) flap. Methods 1. Six unfixed corpses underwent whole body gelatine/lead oxide injection. Specimens were dissected by layers. Angiography and photography were used to document the precise course, size, location, and type of individual perforators in the lateral lumbar region. The surface areas of cutaneous territories and perforator zones were measured and calculated with Photoshop and Scion Image. 2. One specimen also underwent whole body carboxymethylcellulose/lead oxide injection, CT scan and 3D-Reconstrution. Results An average of 1-6 DCIA perforators with a diameter of 0.7mm was present in 92% of specimens. Perforators were located 5～10 cm posterior to the anterior superior iliac spine, 12～35mm above the crest, with a perforator zone of 31 cm2. The DCIA reliably perfused the medial aspect of the iliac crest. Conclusion The DCIA reliably perfused the medial aspect of the iliac crest and lateral lumbar region. It offers a large quantity of bone on a pedicle of large diameter. The mobility of the skin component allows better tissue positioning during complex reconstructions.