The Lateral Thoracic Vessels: A Useful Recipient in Immediate Breast Reconstruction

Abstract

Background Appropriate recipient vessel selection is a crucial aspect of microsurgical reconstruction. The chest wall presents several options for microvascular anastomosis, the most popular being the internal mammary and thoracodorsal vessels, although they may not always be available or suitable for breast reconstruction. We propose that the lateral thoracic vessels are a useful alternative, given their central position and intraoperative exposure in a skin-sparing mastectomy.

Methods and Results We have performed four abdominal flaps based on the deep inferior epigastric artery and lateral thoracic vessels as the recipient vessels. The average diameter of the lateral thoracic artery was 2 mm and the vein was 2.75 mm. There were no vessel conversions, flap failures, or complications. Excellent aesthetic results were achieved. The anatomy of the lateral thoracic artery is described.

Conclusion The lateral thoracic vessels are advantageous and safe recipient vessels. Their consistent anatomy, central location, and intraoperative exposure make them useful recipient vessels in breast reconstruction.

Keywords

lateral thoracic artery - breast reconstruction - recipient vessel - deep inferior epigastric perforator flap - transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap

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