Anatomic basis for the construction of a musculotendinous flap derived from the pectoralis major muscle.

The vascularization, innervation and termination of the clavicular portion of the pectoralis major muscle were studied by dissection of 7 adult subjects and 2 fetuses. The vascular and nervous autonomy of the clavicular portion was confirmed. Blood-supply was effected by 2 arteries and innervation by an independent nerve. The exact distribution of the fibers composing the pectoralis major and their complex insertion are described. It is concluded that the clavicular portion can be employed as an active muscle transplant to the head of the humerus when the short rotator muscles of the shoulder are ineffective.