Lateral Pectoralis Major Muscle Flap for Axillary Defect Obliteration

Abstract

Summary. This article describes the use of a lateral pectoralis major muscle flap for preemptive obliteration of axillary defects in breast cancer patients having reconstructive surgery. The muscle flap is based on a consistent lateral branch of the pectoral component of the thoracoacromial system. The flap is useful to improve axillary contour after sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection, and to cover lymphovenous anastomoses.