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Purpose: Microsurgical reconstruction in a vessel-depleted neck is a challenge due to the lack of reliable vessels in or nearby the host site. The use of the internal thoracic pedicle (ITP) by rib section or sparring is a limited option due to the small length of the pedicle of some flaps. However, in cardiac surgery, the internal thoracic artery (ITA) is widely used for myocardial revascularization, providing a long and versatile pedicle. We aimed at determining precise anatomical bases for the use of the ITP, approached by sternotomy and rerouted in the neck, as recipient vessels for free-flap facial reconstructions.Methods: We performed a descriptive single centre anatomical study on 20 formalin-embalmed cadavers. The ITP was harvested on both sides from the emergence of the artery under the brachiocephalic vein to its terminal division. The level reached by the ITP in the cervicofacial area was described. Distal arterial and venous diameters, pedicle length and other parameters were measured.Results: In at least 85% of the cases, the ITP reached the mandibular angle. The mean diameter at the distal extremity for the ITA was 2.36 ± 0.15, and 2.48 ± 0.19 mm for the committing vein. The mean length of the ITP was 177.3 mm.Conclusion: Rerouting the ITP towards the cervicofacial area could provide a reliable pedicle for free-flap reconstructions in patients with a vessel-depleted neck but it should be limited to selected patients. This novel solution for situations where current techniques are unfeasible warrants further clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to clarify the anatomical detail of the superior group of vessels in the falciform ligament in terms of the relationship with the internal thoracic vessels, inferior phrenic vessels, and the intrahepatic portal vein. (1) Anatomical study: we dissected eight adult human cadavers (seven normal and one cirrhotic liver) to determine the relationship between the superior group of vessels in the falciform ligament, the internal thoracic vessels, and the inferior phrenic vessels. (2) Clinical study: we determined the origin and destination of the superior group of veins demonstrated in 8 of 4,006 patients with chronic liver disease who underwent the contrast enhanced CT scans. (1) Anatomical study: the superior group of vessels anastomosed the right ( n = 4), left ( n = 2), and both ( n = 2) internal thoracic vessels. They also anastomosed the left ( n = 4), right ( n = 1), and both ( n = 2) inferior phrenic vessels. (2) Clinical study: the origin of the veins was identified as the left medial branch ( n = 4), left lateral branch ( n = 1), both the lateral and medial branches ( n = 1), and the vein from the umbilical portion ( n = 2) of the left portal vein. The drainage vein was identified as the left ( n = 3), right ( n = 2), and the both ( n = 1) internal thoracic veins. We demonstrated the anastomoses between the superior group of vessels of the falciform ligament, the internal thoracic vessels, the inferior phrenic vessels, and the intrahepatic portal vein. These pre-existing anastomoses would develop as porto-systemic shunt in patients with portal hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]