The island thoracoacromial artery muscle perforator flap

Abstract

Descriptions of muscle perforator flaps incorporating the same skin territory of almost all known musculocutaneous flaps reflect their versatility. The pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap is a proven "workhorse" flap, especially for head and neck reconstruction. Yet, the corresponding thoracoacromial artery muscle perforator flap has been relatively overlooked, with few clinical experiences reported, presumably because of the highly variable and diminutive perforators emanating from this source vessel. However, in certain circumstances, this can be another alternative as a local muscle perforator flap for the transfer of chest skin to adjacent defects. Two clinical examples using the island thoracoacromial artery perforator flap prove that this can sometimes be a viable option also for head and neck reconstruction.