Abstract:

Objective To investigate the anatomical characteristics of the anterior chest wall blood-supply of internal thoracic artery and veins and their perforating branches. Methods The  distribution and  anastomosis of the internal thoracic artery and veins were observed on 4 anterior chest walls of 2 fresh adult cadaverswhich were infused by red and blue colorant. The  origin, course, branch, external diameter, distribution and  anastomosis of the internal thoracic artery andveins were observed on 30 anterior chest walls of 15 adult cadavers. The precise localization of the internal thoracic artery and its perforating branches were measured.  Results The majority of  perforating branches originated fromthe medial wall of theinternal thoracic artery. The second and third perforating branches were frequently seen; their incidence rates were 100%, and the antilinear was bigger. Therewere many anastomoses of perforating branches. There was only 1 or no perforating branch vein. The internal thoracic artery is the predominant blood-supply vesselof the anterior chest wall.  Conclusion Rib composite flap pedicled with internal thoracic artery and veins is an ideal material for the reconstruction of mandibular composite tissue defect.

Key words: Internal thoracic artery and veins; Rib composite tissue flap； Anatomy