Lateral thoracic artery axial pattern flap in cats.

To describe the location of the lateral thoracic artery (LTA), determine dimensions of an axial pattern flap based on this artery, and report use of this flap in 2 cats. Ex vivo study and case reports. Cat cadavers (n=8); cats (n=2) with thoracic limb skin defects. Dissection of the LTA was carried out on 1 side of each cadaver and the contralateral side was used for injection studies. In 4 specimens, the LTA was cannulated and injected with positive contrast material and the flap was raised and radiographed. In 4 specimens, the flap was injected with methylene blue. Adequacy of flap injection was subjectively evaluated and leakage of methylene blue from the cut edge was noted. The cutaneous location of the LTA caudal to the triceps muscle was confirmed. Mean flap size was 8.7 cm x 15.5 cm for a mature, averaged-sized cat. Perfusion of the entire flap was demonstrated and viability of the flap was confirmed in 2 clinical cases. The LTA flap is useful for repair of skin defects of the brachium and antebrachium in cats. The LTA flap is an alternative technique for repair of skin defects involving the thoracic limb of cats.