[Intramuscular vascularization of the human latissimus dorsi]

The anatomical data concerning to the latissimus dorsi and its neurovascular pedicle are revised with its applications in reconstructive surgery. The use of this muscle in cardiomyoplasty depends upon a good understanding of its vascularisation and the intramuscular innervation. Our angiological study of the human latissimus dorsi demonstrates clearly the topographic distribution of the branches of the thoraco dorsal artery ant the peripheral blood supply after interrupting the intercostal and lumbar perforating vessels. These findings demonstrate the vascular reliability of the muscle for cardiomyoplasty.