Intercostal muscle flap

Principle

• Can be used to bolster an anastomosis within the thorax

Technique

• Detach transversus thoracis/innermost intercostals from the rib above and the rib below, from anterior to posterior
• Feeding posterior intercostal vessel maintained by entering the periosteum of the rib to detach the muscles
• This provides a long viable flap for use intrathoracically