Lateral cutaneous branch of posterior intercostal artery

The lateral cutaneous branch of the posterior intercostal artery is a vascular branch that originates from the costal segment of the posterior intercostal artery and penetrates the fascia near the middle axillary line to supply the skin and subcutaneous tissues of the lateral thoracic and abdominal wall.

These lateral cutaneous branches (LCBs) are part of the intercostal artery perforator (ICAP) system and consistently travel with accompanying nerves, forming a neurovascular bundle.

The lateral cutaneous branches penetrate the intercostal muscles and overlying fascia near the middle axillary line, typically in the anterolateral region of the thorax and abdomen. The donor area supplied by these vessels extends to the anterolateral skin of the abdomen and lateral chest wall. These branches provide long vascular pedicles and have adequate venous drainage, making them clinically valuable for reconstructive surgery.