Experimental use of intercostal muscle flaps for repair of induced cardiac defects.

Intercostal muscle flaps were successfully used to repair 3 cm defects of the ventricular myocardium in the mongrel dog. Early and late healing of all flaps was uncomplicated and there were no late complications related to aneurysmal formation or electrical abnormalities of the heart. The existing blood supply of the heart was unaffected. The intercostal muscle is suggested as an alternative muscle flap for use in myocardial wall reconstruction.