title: [Free axillary flaps: a versatile area for harvesting of plicable flaps with a nearly undetectable scar].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This article is about 7 cases of free axillary flaps based on the lateral thoracic vessels.
  
  
  METHODS
  Preoperative ultrasound markings were performed. Indications were defects which needed very smooth and plicable flaps for coverage with a short and well detectable scar.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Flap loss was not noticed, dissection was demanding due to the very small venous drainage of the flaps and took all over 6.5 hours. A comparison with standard flaps of the subscapular vascular system is given.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The authors recommend the free axillary flap based on the lateral thoracic vessels as a versatile flap for special indications.
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Plastische und Handchirurgie, Brustzentrum, BHZ Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth. fbusse@freenet.de
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Busse
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Schuster
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Peek
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000601:surgery; D005146:Facial Asymmetry / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016462:Mammaplasty; D008866:Microsurgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D010292:Paresthesia / Q000601:surgery; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D012086:Reoperation; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply*; D013895:Thoracic Arteries / Q000601:surgery; D014680:Veins / Q000601:surgery