Morphometric examination of the free scapular flap

In this study we investigated the clinicoanatomic basis of the scapular flap by morphometric examinations of 42 cadavers. Our findings were as follows: With common-trunk type scapular vessels, the maximal lengths of arteries and veins that could be used for a flap pedicle were 93 and 91 mm. With direct-type scapular vessels, the maximal lengths were 95 and 71 mm. In common-trunk type vessels, the mean internal diameter 2 mm distal from the confluence of the scapular vessel was 2.8 mm for arteries and 3.3 mm for veins. In the direct-type vessels, the mean internal diameter 2 mm distal from the confluence of the circumflex scapular vessel was 1.8 mm for arteries and 3.3 mm for veins. The maximal superoinferit>r dimension of the scapular graft was 28 mm. The maximal lateral dimension of the scapular graft was 12 mm.