NERVE AND VESSEL SUPPLYING LIGAMENTOUS SUSPENSION OF THE MAMMARY-GLAND

Anatomical findings from 28 breast specimens of female corpses have sh own a thin horizontal fibrous septum, originating from the pectoral fa scia along the level of the fifth rib, heading toward the nipple. This fibrous septum lies in between a cranial and a caudal vascular networ k, and being mesentery-like, it is responsible for the supply of the n ipple areola complex. The cranial vascular sheet is supplied by the th oracoacromial artery and a branch of the lateral thoracic artery, wher eas the caudal sheet is supplied by perforating branches from anastomo ses of intercostal arteries. The fibrous septum is also a guiding stru cture for the main supplying nerve of the nipple. At its borders the s eptum curves upward into a vertical medial and lateral ligament, which attach the breast to the sternum and the lateral edge of pectoralis m inor. These ligaments also contain a regular nerve and vascular supply . In their total, the fibrous septum and its ligaments form a sling of dense connective tissue that acts as a brassiere-like suspensory syst em. These two structures, the fibrous sling and the vascular and nervo us membranes attached to it, are consistent anatomical findings, which have not been described before. Their knowledge could be of value and relevance in clinical application.