An anatomical study with clinical application of one branch of the supraclavicular artery.

The supraclavicular flap is an important method for the reconstruction of the neck. In this study, the authors attempted to clarify the mechanism of blood flow into the supraclavicular flap based on the thoracic branch of the supraclavicular artery. Additionally, the authors discuss the clinical application of such anatomy. Thirty fresh cadavers and 13 preserved cadavers were dissected to observe the anatomic features of the pectorally extended supraclavicular flap. Additionally, 46 clinical cases were treated with such a flap. We identified two branches of the supraclavicular artery. A deltoid branch that extended to the acromial region and a thoracic branch that traveled to the anterior thoracic region. Using these data, all such flaps operated by us have to date, survived with satisfactory results. The pectorally extended supraclavicular flap could be used to repair defects on the ipsilateral or contralateral face, neck, and anterior thorax. Copyright 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.