Download PDF
J Reconstr Microsurg 2000; 16(3): 0207-0212
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-7554
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel: +1(212)584-4662

Inferior Angle of the Scapula as a Vascularized Bone Graft: An Anatomic Study

Michael J. Sundine, Valentin I. Sharobaro, Ivan Ljubic, Robert D. Acland, Gordon R. Tobin
  • Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

  PDF Download  Permissions and Reprints

ABSTRACT

-In reconstructing patients with massive midface losses, the authors required a vascularized bone graft that could be used to reconstruct the palate and orbital floor, provide vertical maxillary support, and provide soft tissue. The inferior angle of the scapula appears to be a promising source of vascularized bone stock, and until now, there has been no clear description of its vascular anatomy. The purpose of this study was to define the vascular anatomy of the inferior angle of the scapula. Thirteen fresh cadavers were studied. The subscapular artery was injected with Microfil® (Flow Tec, Carver, MA) at its origin. Two branches of the subscapular artery were found to converge on the angle of the scapula: the descending osseous branch of the circumflex scapular, and the transverse branch of the thoracodorsal. The descending osseous branch of the circumflex scapular artery supplied the inferior angle of the scapula in 100 percent of cases. The transverse branch of the thoracodorsal artery supplied it in 76 percent of cases. The descending osseous branch of the circumflex scapular artery is the principal artery supplying the inferior angle of the scapula.

      >