Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
10:56
Procurement and Perfusion-Decellularization of Porcine Vascularized Flaps in a Customized Perfusion Bioreactor
Published on: August 1, 2022
[Lateral thoracic flaps pedicled with subscapular vessels for defects in the upper extremities]
Gang Liang1, Jian Li, Jian Ding
1Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, the Second Hospital of Shaoxing City, Shaoxing 312000, China.
Zhonghua Zheng Xing Wai Ke Za Zhi = Zhonghua Zhengxing Waike Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery
|February 17, 2011
Summary
Lateral thoracic flaps, supplied by subscapular vessels, are a feasible option for upper extremity defect repair. This method offers reliable blood supply and satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes with minimal donor site morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Context:
- Large soft tissue defects in the upper extremities pose significant reconstructive challenges.
- Traditional methods may involve substantial donor site morbidity or suboptimal outcomes.
- The subscapular vascular system offers a potential source for robustly vascularized flaps.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using lateral thoracic flaps pedicled with subscapular vessels for upper extremity defects.
- To assess the therapeutic efficacy and outcomes of this reconstructive technique.
- To determine the reliability of blood supply and donor site morbidity associated with this flap.
Summary:
- Five cases of large upper extremity soft tissue defects were treated using lateral thoracic flaps pedicled with subscapular vessels.
- Flap sizes ranged from 23x8 cm to 40x20 cm, incorporating thoracodorsal vessels and perforators.
- Four flaps achieved complete survival with satisfactory cosmetic and functional results; one case had partial distal necrosis.
Impact:
- Lateral thoracic flaps provide a flexible and reliable reconstructive option for upper extremity defects.
- This technique demonstrates a favorable blood supply and reduced donor site morbidity.
- Satisfactory aesthetic and functional recovery was observed in the majority of patients, enhancing quality of life.
