The Anatomical Study of Internal Mammary Perforators

Abstract

Purpose: As a recipient vessel, internal mammary vessels have many advantages for microvascular reconstruction of the breast. But the approach is time consuming and results in large morbidities. However, the perforating branches of the internal mammary vessels can be used to minimize such demerits. The purpose of this cadaver study is to clarify the location and diameter of the perforating branches of internal mammary vessels and to prove that they are safe and reliable recipient vessels. Methods: We studied 11 formalin-fixed cadavers and dissected their anterior chests bilaterally. The chests were exposed using midline presternal incisions. We dissected and found all perforators at subfascial planes under loupe magnification. The number, external diameter, and the distance from the midline were measured. Results: The mean external diameter of the arterial perforators was 1.32mm and the mean external diameter of the venous perforators was 1.48mm. The largest arterial and venous perforators were most frequently found in the second intercostal space. The mean distance from the midline to the perforator was evaluated; the artery averaged 1.95cm and the vein averaged 2.08cm. Conclusion: This study will be helpful when using the internal mammary perforating vessels as a recipient vessel during breast reconstruction.