internal mammary vessels
Primary recipient vessels for microsurgical breast reconstruction, located along the chest wall behind the ribs.
Full Definition
The internal mammary vessels consist of the internal mammary artery and veins that run along the lateral edge of the sternum, behind the costal cartilages. These vessels serve as the primary recipient site for microsurgical free flap breast reconstruction, providing reliable blood supply for transferred tissue. Access typically requires removal of a short segment of costal cartilage (usually third or fourth rib) to expose the vessels for anastomosis. The internal mammary vessels offer excellent flow characteristics and anatomical positioning for natural breast reconstruction results.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as IMA or IMV in surgical notes.
In Context
- "Microsurgical anastomosis was performed to the internal mammary vessels through the fourth intercostal space." — Operative report
- "Preoperative CT angiography confirmed patent internal mammary vessels bilaterally." — Preoperative imaging report