Lateral deltopectoral flap: a new and extended flap

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Pectoral tissues (skin, pectoralis major muscle) are vital for cervical and neck reconstructions.
• Blood supply dictates flap type: medial (internal mammary artery) or lateral (thoracodorsal, lateral thoracic arteries).
• The traditional medial deltopectoral flap is unsuitable if parasternal skin or pectoralis major muscle requires resection.

Observation:

• The medial deltopectoral flap relies on the internal mammary artery, precluding its use if parasternal skin or pectoralis major muscle requires resection.
• A novel lateral deltopectoral flap, based on axillary and lateral thoracic arteries, has been developed.

Findings:

• The new lateral deltopectoral flap was successfully employed in extensive cervical and thoracic reconstruction following giant basal cell carcinoma resection.
• This demonstrates the flap's viability and effectiveness in challenging reconstructive scenarios.

Implications:

• The lateral deltopectoral flap provides a crucial alternative for neck and thoracic reconstruction when traditional medial flaps are contraindicated.
• This technique expands the reconstructive armamentarium for surgeons managing complex defects, particularly after oncologic resections.