The lateral pectoral flap

The lateral pectoral flap is a new pedicled flap based on the superficial t horacic artery which arises from the subscapular artery and courses along t he lateral border of pectoralis major. The flap consists of skin, subcutane ous tissue and the underlying pectoral epimysium, It has been used successf ully to resurface contralateral soft tissue defects over the fingers, thumb and dorsum of the hand in eight cases, The advantages of this flap are tha t it provides reliable soft tissue cover to the hand, which can be kept in an elevated position resting comfortably on the contralateral pectoral regi on with the forearm and arm aligned conveniently in the cross-chest positio n. It does not interfere,vith clothing and dressing the lower part of the b ody in contrast to the groin, hypogastric or lower abdominal flaps, and it allows early ambulation. Primary closure of the donor site in the majority of cases is an added benefit.