title: Significance of 'Langer's axillary arch' in axillary dissection.
abstract: The axillary arch is reported to occur in 7% of the population, but in our experience has only been observed in 0.25%. The anatomical features are described and its importance in axillary dissection is indicated. In addition, its relevance to the prevention of lymphoedema and to the construction of latissimus dorsi flaps is discussed. The axillary arch should be considered in the differential diagnosis of axillary swellings.
authors.affiliation: Academic Surgical Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, England, UK.
authors.forename: J W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Serpell
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Baum
mesh_terms: D001365:Axilla / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery; D004210:Dissection; D006801:Humans; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000209:etiology; D009132:Muscles / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps