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Free lateral thoracic flap in head and neck reconstruction
Archives of Otolaryngology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|July 1, 1981
Summary
The free lateral thoracic flap offers a longer vascular pedicle and larger vessels than the groin flap, enhancing versatility in head and neck reconstruction. Its harvest is simpler and quicker once the surgeon is familiar with the anatomy.
Area of Science:
- Microsurgery
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Microvascular surgery has increased the use of free skin flaps for clinical reconstruction.
- The groin flap is a common free flap due to its large skin area, reliable vessels, and favorable scar.
- A significant limitation of the groin flap is its short vascular pedicle.
Observation:
- The free lateral thoracic flap possesses a longer vascular pedicle compared to the groin flap.
- Vessels within the lateral thoracic flap pedicle are of larger caliber.
- The pedicle can reach up to 10 cm in length with vessels approximately 2 mm in external diameter.
Findings:
- The longer and larger vascular pedicle of the lateral thoracic flap provides greater reconstructive versatility, particularly in head and neck procedures.
- Harvesting the free lateral thoracic flap becomes more time-efficient and simpler with familiarity with its specific vascular anatomy.
Implications:
- The free lateral thoracic flap presents a valuable alternative to the groin flap, offering improved reach and vessel size for complex reconstructions.
- Enhanced understanding and adoption of the lateral thoracic flap technique can streamline surgical procedures and improve patient outcomes in head and neck reconstruction.