[Cervico-scapulo-dorsal reverse axial flap with pedicle including the transverse cervical artery]

The anatomy of the transverse cervical artery and its branches were studied on 52 arteries in 26 cadavers. It was confirmed that blood in the transverse cervical artery might flow reversely into the suprascapular artery and the posterior intercostal perforators through anastomic branches. An axial skin flap in the cervico-scapulo-dorsal area could be adequately supplied by this artery. We have used this flap in reconstruction for burn scar contractures of the neck in 20 cases, and in one patient bilateral flaps were used. There was partial necrosis of the tip in 4 flaps, while all others survived completely.