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J Reconstr Microsurg 2001; 17(6): 413-416
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-16353
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Lateral Thoracic Artery as a Vascular Variant in the Supply to the Free Serratus Anterior Flap

Joan E. Lipa, David W. Chang
  • Department of Plastic Surgery, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The authors describe a case in which the dominant blood supply to a subperiosteally-harvested serratus anterior muscle and rib composite myoosseous free flap came from the lateral thoracic artery. There were no other associated features in this patient to warn of the vascular variant. Reconstructive surgeons should be aware of possible variations in the vascular anatomy of this flap.

KEYWORD

Vascular anatomy - vascular variant in dominant blood supply - serratus anterior flap

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