A Novel Dissection Method of the Internal Mammary (Thoracic) Artery: Anastomotic Vessel of the DIEP Flap.

ABSTRACT: Deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps are commonly used for breast reconstruction using autologous tissue. For such free flaps, the internal mammary artery provides stable blood flow as the recipient for anastomosis. We report a novel dissection method of the internal mammary artery. First, the perichondrium and costal cartilage of the sternocostal joint are dissected with electrocautery. Then, the incision on the perichondrium is extended along the cephalic and caudal ends. Next, this C-shaped superficial layer of perichondrium is elevated from the cartilage. The cartilage is incompletely fractured with electrocautery, with the deep layer of perichondrium intact. Then, the cartilage is completely fractured by leverage and removed. The remaining deep layer of perichondrium is incised a

SUBMITTER: Sakai S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10125686 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature