Related Experiment Videos
Pectoralis major segmental anatomy and segmentally split pectoralis major flaps
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|June 1, 1985
Summary
This study demonstrates segmentally splitting pectoralis major flaps into independent subunits based on detailed anatomic findings. This technique allows for preserving donor motor function and creating multiple flaps from a single muscle.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Anatomy
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- The pectoralis major muscle and its myocutaneous units are crucial for reconstructive surgery.
- Understanding the segmental neurovascular supply is key to optimizing flap design.
Observation:
- Anatomic studies of 105 cadavers revealed consistent segmentation of the pectoralis major muscle, its neurovascular supply, and myocutaneous territory.
- Three distinct independent segments were identified: clavicular, sternocostal, and external.
Findings:
- The study provides an anatomic basis for segmentally splitting pectoralis major flaps.
- A surgical technique for segmentally splitting these flaps was developed and described.
- Experimental animal studies and 36 clinical reconstructions validated the technique's utility.
Implications:
- Segmental splitting preserves innervated muscle segments in situ, maintaining donor site motor function.
- This technique enables the creation of two independent flaps from a single pectoralis major muscle.
- It offers versatile reconstructive options in plastic and reconstructive surgery.