[Serratus anterior muscle flap: indications and sequelae. 26 cases and review of the literature].

Abstract

The authors report their experience of the use of the serratus anterior flap. Between 1992 and 1997, this flap was used for 14 head and neck and 11 limb and 1 intra-thoracic reconstructions. Twelve patients were examined for functional evaluation of the donor site. When only 2 or 3 slips are raised donor site morbidity is limited to moderate winging of the scapula with no functional disorders. Because of its thinness, and the length and diameter of the vascular pedicle, the serratus anterior flap is our favourite option for small wounds of the distal limb or composite and large defects in association with flaps of the subscapular system.