Anatomical basis for the use of the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in reconstructive surgery

The aim of this study was to clearly identify the vascularization of the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap owing to the importance of its use in the surgery of cervicofacial cancer. This work was based on the study of 40 pectoralis major muscles. The anatomical specimens were dissected after non selective injection of red latex followed by selective injection via the arterial pedicle of the muscle and finally injection of the cutaneous territory supplied by this pedicle. This study confirms the existence of a main arteriovenous pedicle vascularizing the donor site. The pedicle, lying at the deep surface of the pectoralis major, originates from the thoracoacromial artery. Rotation of the myocutaneous flap is achieved around this pedicle, the latter ensuring the survival of the flap. Participation of other arteries in the vascularization of the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap was also noted in this study.