The angular branch of the thoracodorsal artery and its blood supply to the inferior angle of the scapula: an anatomical study

An anatomical study of the thoracodorsal arterial system was performed; it focused on the angular branch. The aim of the study was to document the anatomical variations of this pedicle and to delineate the area of supply to the inferior angle of the scapula with a view to free bone transfer. A total of 81 cadaver dissections were performed; they revealed the constant presence of the thoracodorsal artery and four vascular patterns of origin of the angular branch. Selective India ink perfusion studies performed on 11 sides in six fresh cadavers demonstrated a reliable supply to the inferior angle of the scapula to the extent of 6 cm of the vertebral margin and 3 cm of the lateral margin of the scapula. Histologic analysis of sections of this region of the scapula confirmed the presence of ink within the periosteal, cortical, and medullary vascular channels, implying the viability of this area of bone if transferred based on the angular branch.