Incidence of absent subscapular artery and morphometric analysis of the thoracodorsal artery in a sample of black South Africans

The subscapular artery (SBA), typically the largest branch of the axillary artery (AA) usually originates from its third part and bifurcates into the thoracodorsal artery (TDA) and the circumflex scapular artery (CSA). However, anatomical variations exist where the TDA and CSA arise independently from the AA, a pattern referred to as the absent subscapular artery (ASA). The TDA is vital for the viability of the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap, a reliable and versatile option in reconstructive procedures. Variations in its origin can affect flap design and success. The SBA length and calibre make it a potential conduit in coronary artery bypass grafting; an absent subscapular artery necessitates alternative strategies. There is a lack of population-specific studies documenting the incidence of the ASA. This study aims to document the incidence of ASA and morphometry of the TDA.