In breast reconstruction after a modified radical mastectomy, which artery supplies the latissimus dorsi flap?

The thoracodorsal artery is the primary blood supply to the latissimus dorsi flap used in breast reconstruction following a modified radical mastectomy. This artery branches off the subscapular artery, which itself branches from the axillary artery, but it is the thoracodorsal artery that directly provides the necessary vascular supply to the latissimus dorsi muscle.

In breast reconstruction, the latissimus dorsi flap is a common option due to its reliable blood supply and the bulk of tissue that it provides for reconstructive purposes. Understanding the vascular anatomy is critical; if the thoracodorsal artery is adequately preserved during harvesting of the flap, it ensures good viability and function of the muscle in transfer for reconstruction.

Other options pertain to arteries that either do not supply the latissimus dorsi directly or have roles in different anatomical regions or muscle supply. The subscapular artery, while related, does not supply the latissimus dorsi flap itself. The intercostal artery primarily supplies muscles in the intercostal space and the axillary artery supplies a general area but is not responsible for the blood supply specifically to the latissimus dorsi flap.