Systematic Review of Patient-Reported Outcomes and Complications of Pedicled Latissimus Flap Breast Reconstruction

The latissimus dorsi (LD) flap is a reliable option for breast reconstruction. This is particularly true in patients with contraindications to abdominally based autologous breast reconstruction. A systematic review of patient satisfaction and health related quality of life following LD breast reconstruction using the BREAST-Q survey was conducted. The scope of the review was to determine the degree of patient satisfaction following the procedure and to examine how patient satisfaction from the pedicled LD flap compares to other breast reconstructive procedures. A literature search on BREAST-Q in LD flap reconstruction was performed. Only articles written in English and in published peer-reviewed journals were included. Studies with less than 20 patients in their sample and those with a follow-up period of less than 1 year were excluded. Five articles representing 331 patients were reviewed, including one case-control study and four retrospective cohort studies. Level of evidence was either III (4) or IV (1). The average age was 53 with average body mass index of 25. Most reconstructions were delayed (67%) and unilateral (88%), and most patients required radiation (79%). The average length of follow-up was 36 months, and the response rate was 75%. Overall, patients who underwent LD flap reconstruction reported favorable outcomes in satisfaction domains and quality of life domains with few complications. A meta-analysis also demonstrated higher satisfaction in LD flap without implants compared with LD flap with implants. Patient-reported outcomes following LD breast reconstruction compare favorably with other techniques of breast reconstruction.

Unilateral Absence of the Latissimus Dorsi: A Report of a Rare Case

The latissimus dorsi is the largest muscle in the human body, located in the lower posterior thorax, and it contributes to motion in the upper extremity and provides assistance in respiration. This case report describes a rare occurrence of a unilateral absence of the latissimus dorsi accompanied by contralateral scoliosis in a 73-year-old female cadaver. The absence of the muscle along with the absence of the thoracodorsal nerve and branches of the subscapular and axillary arteries was identified during a standard dissection course. The implications of this rare case extend to an array of surgical interventions, including head, neck, breast, and torso reconstructive applications. It is important to investigate potential anomalies of the latissimus dorsi, while planning or performing free flap transfers. The report also highlights the importance of understanding this variation for educational and research purposes.

A Rare Case of Extensive Basal Cell Carcinoma With Invasion of the Humerus: Excision and Immediate Reconstruction With Fibula Allograft, Plating, and Latissimus Dorsi Flap

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer, and most of the reports have involved the head and neck, but it is rare for it to be highly invasive, with an invasion of long bone being extremely rare. A 73 year old woman presented with a giant BCC on her right arm. Magnetic resonance imaging suggested the involvement of the right humerus. Biopsy confirmed the nodular type of BCC. The patient underwent BCC excision including hemicortical humerus excision with fibula allograft and latissimus dorsi flap with a split-thickness skin graft. Excluding a transient radial nerve palsy, the patient's postoperative course was otherwise uncomplicated. Although BCC invasion into the long bone is extremely rare, the gold standard treatment is, as a rule, en bloc surgical resection with a wide variety of reconstructive techniques. This treatment is only possible through the collaboration of general surgery, orthopedics, and plastic surgery.

Defining the Ideal Breast Reconstruction Procedure After Mastectomy From the Patient Perspective: A Retrospective Analysis

Background:

An increasing number of breast cancer patients undergo immediate or secondary breast reconstruction, but the ideal method in terms of patient satisfaction remains ambiguous. We compared the 3 most common breast reconstruction techniques to determine patient satisfaction and objective outcomes.

Methods:

Retrospective study of 184 patients with breast cancer who underwent a reconstructive procedure between 1993 and 2011 at our institution. Procedures evaluated were implant-based reconstruction (IBR) alone, latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction with/without implant, and deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) free flap reconstruction. A retrospective patient satisfaction questionnaire was sent to all women. Twenty patients from each subgroup were matched to conduct a standardized objective assessment of the sensitivity of their reconstructed breast. A blinded photographic evaluation was also performed by 3 independent observers to assess the esthetic aspect and symmetry.

Results:

DIEP obtained significantly higher average scores regarding the esthetic outcome, immediate reconstruction impact, and overall score in the questionnaire evaluation. The IBR had the best results in the somatosensory evaluation, with DIEP scoring better than LD. DIEP received higher scores on average than LD for the criteria of size and symmetry in the esthetic evaluation. No statistically significant differences were observed between IBR and DIEP.

Conclusions:

Good results were reported overall for all breast reconstruction procedures, with more reserved scores for LD. The DIEP reconstruction appeared to be the most satisfactory and best experienced reconstruction method for patients, despite the complexity of the intervention. Clinicians should be encouraged to consider DIEP as the principal choice for breast reconstruction.

Versatility of the subscapular system of flaps in head and neck oncologic reconstruction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review analyzes the different ways of applying the subscapular system of flaps (SSSF) as a convenient and versatile solution for a large variety of head and neck oncologic defects.

RECENT FINDINGS

The ventral approach permits safe and efficient harvest of various chimeric SSSF in a supine position, thus allowing simultaneous flap preparation and tumor ablation. Conformational studies have revealed how similar the tip of the scapula is to the hard palate in terms of dimensions, shape, and conformation. This has led to favor horizontal placement of the scapular tip for palate reconstruction in most instances, addressing the vertical extension of the postmaxillectomy defect using denuded bony grafts surrounded by well vascularized chimeric muscular components.

SUMMARY

The SSSF possesses an unparalleled versatility to efficiently address small-medium sized soft tissue defects up to vast and complex composite resections. The chimeric components of these flaps benefit from a considerable independency provided by the length of the named arteries arising from the thoracodorsal pedicle, offering a high degree of freedom to accomplish the required in-setting. This reconstructive option should be implemented in every head and neck surgical team and offered to suitable patients.

Patient-Reported Outcomes and Complications Following Breast Reconstruction: A Comparison Between Biological Matrix-Assisted Direct-to-Implant and Latissimus Dorsi Flap

Background

Implant-based breast reconstruction is increasingly becoming the most common method of postmastectomy breast reconstruction in use today. As the traditional autologous reconstruction technique, latissimus dorsi flap (LDF) is employed by surgeons for reconstruction after breast cancer surgery, including partial mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy, and others. The authors aim to compare patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and complications between the SIS matrix-assisted direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction and the autologous LDF breast reconstruction.

Methods

Patients undergoing the SIS matrix-assisted DTI reconstruction or mastectomy with LDF reconstruction or partial mastectomy with mini latissimus dorsi flap (MLDF) reconstruction were enrolled in a single institution from August 2010 to April 2019. Patients were included for analysis and divided into three groups: those who underwent LDF reconstruction, those who underwent MLDF reconstruction, and patients who underwent SIS matrix-assisted DTI breast reconstruction. PROs (using the BREAST-Q version 2.0 questionnaire) and complications were evaluated.

Results

A total of 135 patients met the inclusion criteria: 79 patients (58.5%) underwent SIS matrix-assisted DTI, 29 patients (21.5%) underwent LDF breast reconstruction, and 27 patients (20%) underwent MLDF breast reconstruction. PROs and complication rates between LDF reconstruction group and MLDF reconstruction group showed no statistically significant differences. Furthermore, BREAST-Q responses found that patients in the whole autologous LDF reconstruction group had better psychosocial well-being, showing a mean score of 84.31 ± 17.28 compared with SIS matrix-assisted DTI reconstruction, with a mean score of 73.52 ± 19.96 (p = 0.005), and expressed higher sexual well-being (69.65 ± 24.64 vs. 50.95 ± 26.47; p = 0.016). But there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups for postoperative complications.

Conclusion

This retrospective study showed no statistically significant differences between LDF breast reconstruction and MLDF breast reconstruction. However, patients in the whole autologous LDF reconstruction group yielded superior PROs than patients in the SIS matrix-assisted DTI reconstruction group in the psychosocial well-being and sexual well-being domains.

Clinical and Surgical Outcomes in Extensive Scalp Reconstruction after Oncologic Resection: A Comparison of Anterolateral Thigh, Latissimus Dorsi and Omental Free Flaps

Microsurgical scalp reconstruction is indicated in patients with large scalp defects. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of scalp reconstruction in oncologic patients reconstructed with latissimus dorsi (LD), anterolateral thigh (ALT), and omental (OM) free flaps. Thirty oncologic patients underwent scalp reconstruction with LD (10), ALT (11), and OM (9) flaps. The length of the vascular pedicle, the operation time, the possibility of a two-team approach, the length of hospital stays, the complications, and the aesthetic results were evaluated. The OM flap was the flap with the shortest vascular pedicle length with a mean of 6.26 ± 0.16 cm, compared to the LD flap, which was 12.34 ± 0.55 cm and the ALT flap with 13.20 ± 0.26 cm (p < 0.05). The average time of surgery was 6.6 ± 0.14 h in patients reconstructed with OM, compared to the LD flap, which was 8.91 ± 0.32 h and the ALT flap with 7.53 ± 0.22 h (p < 0.05). A two-team approach was performed in all patients for OM flaps and ALT flaps, but only in two patients reconstructed with the LD flap (p < 0.001). In patients reconstructed with the OM flap, a very satisfactory or satisfactory result was reported in seven patients (77.8%). Eight patients reported a very unsatisfactory or unsatisfactory result with LD flap (80%) and 10 patients with ALT flap (90.9%) (p = 0.002). The mean hospital stay after surgery was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). As for complications, two patients reconstructed with OM flap, five LT flaps, and two ALT flaps developed complications, not statistically significant (p = 0.235). Omental flap, latissimus dorsi flap, and anterolateral thigh flap fulfill most of the characteristics for complex scalp reconstruction. The decision on which flap to use should be based on clinical aspects of the patients taking into account that the three flaps show similar rates of complications and length of hospital stay. Regarding the aesthetic outcome, OM flap or LD flap should be considered for reconstruction of extensive scalp defects.

Reconstruction of elbow flexion after sarcoma excision by a unipolar pedicled latissimus dorsi flap

INTRODUCTION

The latissimus dorsi flap is widely used in plastic surgery for covering the upper limb but also for reconstruction the function of the elbow or shoulder. We describe a case of a sarcoma of the anterior compartment of the arm, the surgical removal then the covering and reconstruction of the elbow flexion. This case was carried out by a unipolar pedicled flap of the latissimus dorsi.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three steps were performed (excision, flap preparation and flap fixation). The functional results (muscle strength, MRC scale) and range of motion (ROM) were analyzed. We performed a small literature review to compare the results.

RESULTS

A complete excision (R0) was carried out with a good vitality of the latissimus dorsi flap. A rapid scarring was obtained, allowing an early start of adjuvant radiotherapy. Muscular strength was 33% less compared to preoperative, MRC scale was classified 4. ROM of the elbow were rated at -10/0/130. One year after the operation, the patient is still in remission.

CONCLUSION

Our functional results are comparable to those found in the literature. The muscle strength in our case appears to be superior, probably linked to a brachio-radialis muscle still functional. No difference in function has been found in the literature between a unipolar or a bipolar transfer of the latissimus dorsi. This case report confirms the reliable and effective nature of the latissimus dorsi flap. The use of this flap for reconstruction after sarcoma surgery has only few reports in the literature.

Axillary lymph node recurrence in patients with breast cancer who underwent breast reconstruction using a latissimus dorsi flap after mastectomy

At our institution (Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Medical Hospital), latissimus dorsi flap (LD flap) reconstruction without a prosthetic implant is a popular surgical strategy following total mastectomy in patients with breast cancer. The LD flap, especially the extended LD flap, is usually rotated anteriorly through the axilla. However, if future additional surgery is required for axillary recurrence after LD flap reconstruction, the flap interferes with the visual field, making the surgical procedure more difficult. Because cases of axillary lymph node recurrence alone are rare, to the best of our knowledge, no paper has reported in detail on the technique and course of lymph node recurrence after LD flap reconstruction. The present study describes two cases of successful axillary lymph node dissection without sacrificing the flap for breast cancer recurrence after LD flap reconstruction. A brief analysis of immediate breast reconstruction with an LD flap performed in patients with breast cancer at our institution is also reported.

Muscle flaps for sternoclavicular joint septic arthritis

Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint (SC) is rare. The most accepted technique for reconstruction of the defect after SC joint resection is the use of muscle flaps. We hypothesized that resection of ribs with the SC joint impacts timing, type and outcomes of reconstruction. This is a retrospective review of 44 patients who underwent wound closure with muscle flap following resection of the SC joint for septic arthritis over 14 years period from a single institution. Patients were divided into two groups based on the resection of the adjacent ribs with the SC joint. We found 18 (40.9%) patients with SC joint resection only and 26 (59.1%) with concomitant resection of the adjacent ribs. Patients in the rib resection group were younger, did not need SC joint fluid aspiration, and had higher tissue culture positivity (p < .05). Rib resection with the SC joint was found to be associated with delayed reconstruction (57.7% vs 22.2%, p = .030), need for serial debridement's (2 vs 1, p = .009), increased days from debridement to reconstruction for a subset of patients (75% percentile of 8 days vs. 0 days, p = .024), and longer hospital stay (18 vs 9, p = .006). Flap complications were higher in rib resection group (26.9% vs 5.6%, p = .67). Reconstruction following resection of the SC joint for septic arthritis is guided by the surgeon's impression regarding source control of infection. Rib resection concomitantly with joint resection appears to be a useful indicator of disease extent and may help guide clinical decision making in this challenging scenario.

Latissimus Dorsi flap enhancement by lipofilling as an immediate breast reconstruction technique for skin-preserving mastectomy

AIM

To evaluate Latissimus Dorsi flap (LD) enhancement by lipofilling as an immediate breast reconstruction technique, for skin-preserving mastectomy regarding oncological safety, fat graft resorption after radiotherapy, and patients' satisfaction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a prospective study that included female patients complaining of breast cancer. Patients were subjected to skin-preserving mastectomy associated with Latissimus Dorsi flap enhancement by lipofilling using the multisite, and multilayer fat grafting technique of injection. Patients were followed up for early and late postoperative complications including recurrence. Volumetric CT was performed before and after the radiotherapy to detect the percentage of fat resorption. Postoperative patients' satisfaction was assessed using the Kyungpook National University Hospital (KNUH) Breast Reconstruction Satisfaction Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The study included 25 female patients with a mean age of 36.48 ± 5.87 years. The mean period of follow-up was 30.32 ± 5.82 months. Local recurrence was encountered in 1 patient (4%). The mean volume reduction of the injected fat graft was 27.36 ± 8.58%. Twenty-three patients (92%) declared their satisfaction after the operation, one of them was satisfied only after she underwent a second session of lipofilling.

CONCLUSIONS

Skin-preserving mastectomy with the enhancement of the LD by lipofilling for immediate reconstruction of the breast seems to be a safe and simple technique for the achievement of autologous breast reconstruction. It has an acceptance rate of locoregional recurrence and minor postoperative complications. The procedure showed high postoperative patients' satisfaction and a reasonable percentage of fat resorption as confirmed by volumetric CT imaging techniques.

The Modified Extended Fleur-De-Lis Latissimus Dorsi Flap for Various Complex Multi-directional Large Soft and Bone Tissue Reconstruction

Introduction Latissimus Dorsi (LD) myocutaneous flap is a workhorse flap for various large reconstructions. Variants described to increase its volume are referred to as extended LD flaps. The extended fleur-de-lis LD is one of these variants. We report the clinical outcomes using a modified extended fleur-de-lis LD flap for complex multi-directional soft and bone tissue defects. Methods Between 2010 and 2017, 29 patients underwent the modified extended fleur-de-lis LD flaps, whose sizes were between 120 cm² and 442 cm². The mean age was 47.55 ± 9.07 years. Locations of the defects included head and neck (nine cases), upper extremity (six cases), lower extremity (nine cases) and chest wall regions (five cases). Results Of the 29 extended fleur-de-lis LD flaps, 11 were pedicled and 18 were free flaps. A total of 10 flaps were osteomyocutaneous and 19 were myocutaneous. The mean vertical size of the harvested skin paddle was 30.72 ± 4.57 cm (range: 20-38), and the mean horizontal size of the skin paddle was 8.69 ± 0.80 (range: 7-10) cm, with the mean maximum horizontal extensions of the flaps being 16.03 ± 1.18 (range: 14-18) cm. The flap survival rates were 100%. One flap had distal partial loss (less than 5%). Donor site complications included seroma (1) and numbness (1), both of which were managed conservatively. The average follow-up time was 23.97 ± 7.19 months. Conclusion The presented modified extended fleur-de-lis LD myocutaneous/osteomyocutaneous flap for reconstruction of multi-directional complex soft tissue and bone defects is a good and reliable option, with low donor site morbidity.

Late animation deformity in the denervated pedicled latissimus dorsi flap

Optimal management of the thoracodorsal nerve in pedicled latissimus dorsi flaps for mastectomy reconstruction is controversial. The incidence and etiology of animation deformity despite muscle denervation remain poorly- understood. This study examines the incidence, etiology, and risk factors of late animation. A retrospective review identified breasts reconstructed with a denervated pedicled latissimus dorsi flap. The incidence and severity of postoperative animation were examined with investigation of potential patient, oncologic, and reconstructive causative factors. Patients completed a survey to assess lifestyle implications. A cadaveric dissection identified anatomical causes of persistent muscle innervation. Forty-one reconstructions with a minimum follow-up of 2 years (average 6.25 years) identified no significant relationship between animation and patient or treatment factors. While absent in the first postoperative year, animation was identified in 90% of patients on long-term follow-up, with 32% reporting pain, and 25% indicating lifestyle interferences. This high frequency of animation correlated with cadaveric results that identified multiple extramuscular nerve branches innervating the latissimus in 9 of 10 specimens. The distance between nerve branches was 5.4 ± 0.7 mm, and the distance between the superior muscle margin and the branching point was 22.7 ± 2.3 mm. Persistent animation deformity, despite nerve transection, is attributable to anatomical differences in the thoracodorsal branching patterns, rather than patient or therapeutic factors. While early follow-up may suggest transection of a single nerve branch is adequate to prevent animation, our study demonstrates that long term, it is insufficient in most cases. Exploration for additional nerve branches or high division proximal to the branching site is suggested, and preoperative patient counseling is recommended.

The Effect of Mini-Latissimus Dorsi Flap (MLDF) Reconstruction on Shoulder Function in Breast Cancer Patients

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of mini latissimus dorsi flap (MLDF) reconstruction on ipsilateral shoulder functions.

Materials and Methods

Those included in the study are the patients aged between 23 and 73, who were operated with the diagnosis of early breast cancer (cT1-3)N0). The first group includes the patients who had sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) with partial mastectomy. The second group consists of the patients who had axillary lymph nodule dissection (ALND) with partial mastectomy. The third group includes the patients who had SLNB and MLDF with partial mastectomy. The fourth group includes the patients who had ALND and MLDF with partial mastectomy. Patients' Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Q-DASH) score work model point were recorded.

Results

174 patients were included in this study. According to Q-DASH score, no functional change was detected in 69.5% of the patients, whereas slight functional loss was identified in 23.6%, moderate functional loss in 5.7%, severe functional loss 1.1%. In the comparison of Q-DASH scores in surgery groups, while these four groups were being analyzed, a significant difference was determined (p=0.007). When dual analyses were made, it was also established that the difference resulted from the group to which ALND and MLDF were applied together.

Conclusion

We conclude that MLDF application for reconstruction purposes after breast surgery has a negative impact on shoulder functions of the patients who had both of partial mastectomy and ALND.

Usefulness of the LigaSure™ small jaw sealing device for breast reconstruction with a latissimus dorsi flap

Background: Seromas are the most common complication of latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction. Electrocautery for flap elevation can cause seromas and injure the lymph or vessels of the surrounding tissues. Positive effects of the LigaSure Small Jaw (Medtronic [formerly Covidien], Minneapolis, MN, USA) sealing device were examined. Methods: Forty-three latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction patients were included. Twenty-three underwent surgery with electrocautery and 21 underwent surgery with LigaSure. The seroma formation rate, total drain volume, drainage indwelling periods at the breast site and donor site, operative time, and hospital stay duration were retrospectively compared. Associations between patient characteristics and these variables were analyzed. Results: Seroma incidence rates were 9/23 (39.1%) and 3/21 (14.3%) for the control and experimental groups. One control group patient underwent surgical treatment; the rest underwent conservative treatment. A significant difference in latissimus dorsi flap elevation time was found between the control and experimental groups (105.6 minutes and 77.1 minutes; p = .026). A significant difference in the drainage indwelling periods of the latissimus dorsi donor site was found (13.1 days and 11 days; p = .006). Excised breast mass weight, latissimus dorsi flap weight, breast drain total volume/indwelling period, and latissimus dorsi drain volume/indwelling period showed statistically significant associations. Radiation and chemotherapy were not significantly associated with any variables. Conclusion: The LigaSure device for latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction can reduce seromas, operative time, and hospital stay. It is a reliable and useful surgical sealing device that does not cause injury to the surrounding tissues.

Ewing's sarcoma of the sternum necessitating complex resection and reconstruction

We present a 30-year-old man with a sternal Ewing’s sarcoma, who was treated by complex resection of the sternal body and reconstruction by a methyl methacrylate sandwich graft and a pedicled latissimus dorsi flap.

Patient Reported Quality of Life and Aesthetic Satisfaction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap in Immediate Partial and Delayed Total Breast Reconstruction

Objectives:

Latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle flap can be used as an alternative to abdominal flaps for autologous breast reconstruction. The aim of the present study was to present the results of the quality of life and aesthetic satisfaction of breast reconstruction surgeries with LD flap and implants.

Methods:

Sixteen patients who had undergone LD flap breast reconstruction were included in the study. Patients were surveyed on the quality of life and aesthetic satisfaction 12 months following breast reconstruction.

Results:

There were no major complications observed following surgeries. All of the patients included in the study were highly satisfied with the final aesthetic results. There was no difference in satisfaction rate between partial versus total reconstructions and between reconstruction with or without implant.

Conclusion:

LD flaps can be a good alternative to abdominal flaps for autologous breast reconstruction for both partial and total breast reconstruction and can achieve similar aesthetic results.

Breast reconstruction of an unusual configuration using two paranemic implants

Implant-based breast reconstruction can be performed using a choice of various types of breast implants. However, cases where the breast shapes are unsuitable for implant-based reconstruction method are occasionally encountered. We present two patients with wide trunks who underwent breast reconstruction using an unusual configuration that involved a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap combined with two paranemic implants.

The anatomy of the musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap for neophalloplasty

In transgender surgery, the ideal neophallus is one that: (a) is constructed using a reproducible procedure, (b) possesses tactile and erogenous sensation, (c) is large and rigid enough (naturally, or using a prosthesis) to permit penetrative intercourse, (d) leaves acceptable donor site morbidity, (e) results in esthetically satisfactory appearance, and (f) allows for voiding while standing. The musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi (MLD) flap has favorable results in the area of neophalloplasty. Among its advantages are acceptable donor site appearance, stiffness sufficient for intercourse, and esthetically satisfactory genital appearance. The anatomy of the MLD flap supports the creation of a neophallus for transsexual anatomy revision. Herein, we give an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure, and the anatomical details and surgical steps involved. Novel illustrations were created from standard surgical text descriptions to clarify this topic for surgical training and patient understanding and decision making. A review of the relevant literature regarding the anatomy, procedure development, and outcomes is presented. The MLD flap uses part of the latissimus dorsi muscle with branches of the thoracodorsal vessels and nerve to construct a neophallus. A thin strip of muscle around the pedicle is harvested, resulting in a slightly curvilinear scar. The blood supply is connected to the femoral artery and saphenous vein or the deep inferior epigastric artery and vein, while the nerve is connected to the ilioinguinal nerve or the obturator nerve. The MLD flap for neophalloplasty is a reliable graft with a well concealed scar and low donor site morbidity. Clin. Anat. 31:152-159, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optimizing Results of Postmastectomy Radiation Therapy Utilizing the Latissimus Dorsi Flap and Tissue Expander Technique: A Single-Center Experience

Objective: Postmastectomy radiation therapy is a well-established risk factor for complications after breast reconstruction. Even if the surgeon has a suspicion that radiation therapy may be needed, it may be beneficial to place tissue expanders during the mastectomy procedure as a temporizing measure, complete radiation therapy, and then reconstruct the breast with a latissimus flap. The purpose of this study was to examine the complication rates of the latissimus dorsi flap as compared with the complication rates of implant-based reconstruction in the setting of radiation therapy. Methods: A 16-year retrospective chart review from 2000 to 2016 was conducted. All patients who underwent temporizing tissue expander placement for radiotherapy with subsequent latissimus flap reconstruction were included in the study. Patients who did not follow up for implant exchange were excluded from the study. Results: Fifty-five patients were identified with an average age of 46.0 years (range, 27-67 years) and an average body mass index of 24.2 (range, 18.9-31.9). Five patients (9.1%) developed capsular contractures amenable to surgical intervention. One patient (1.8%) developed infection of the tissue expander, requiring removal. There were no incidences of flap failure or wound dehiscence. The average follow-up after latissimus flap reconstruction was 25.3 months (range, 3.7-121.6 months). Conclusions: We feel that the latissimus dorsi flap after postmastectomy radiation therapy represents the preferred implant-based reconstruction option to consider when the need for postmastectomy radiation therapy is anticipated. The latissimus dorsi flap remains a safe, effective solution to postmastectomy radiation therapy that every plastic surgeon should offer.

[Latissimus dorsi flap in reconstruction following treatment of giant tumor of the abdominal wall: about a rare case]

We report the case of a 16-year old patient presenting with giant, multinodular, mesenchymal tumor of the abdominal wall occupying the left abdominal region and measuring 25 cm on the vertical axis, 20 cm on the transverse axis, mobile when compared with the deep structures and gradually increasing in volume over childhood and neglected. After small biopsy, which showed desmoid tumor, the patient underwent complete surgical resection of the tumor with immediate reconstruction by free muscolo skin flap of the latissimus dorsi attached to the large blood vessels of the inguinal fold (left iliac artery and left external iliac vein), connected by termino lateral anastomosis. Flap survival was correctly performed and reconstruction was successful.

Functional Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Upper-Extremity Reconstruction: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Objective: The latissimus dorsi flap is a workhorse for plastic surgeons, being used for many years for soft-tissue coverage of the upper extremity as well as for functional reconstruction to restore motion to the elbow and shoulder. The authors present a case of functional latissimus dorsi transfer for restoration of elbow flexion and review the literature on technique and outcomes. Methods: A literature review was performed using MEDLINE and the Cochrane Collaboration Library for primary research articles on functional latissimus dorsi flap transfer. Data related to surgical techniques and outcomes were extracted. Results: The literature search yielded 13 relevant studies, with a total of 52 patients who received pedicled, functional latissimus dorsi flaps for upper-extremity reconstruction. The most common etiology requiring reconstruction was closed brachial plexus injury (n = 13). After flap transfer, 98% of patients were able to flex the elbow against gravity and 82.3% were able to flex against resistance. In the presented case, a 77-year-old man underwent resection of myxofibrosarcoma of the upper arm with elbow prosthesis placement and functional latissimus dorsi transfer. The patient was able to actively flex against gravity at 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: A review of the literature shows that nearly all patients undergoing functional latissimus dorsi transfer for upper-extremity reconstruction regain at least motion against gravity whereas a large proportion regain motion against resistance. Considerations when planning for functional latissimus dorsi transfer include patient positioning, appropriate tensioning of the muscle, safe inset, polarity, management of other affected upper-extremity joints, and educating patients on the expected outcomes.

Novel technique for laparoscopic harvesting of latissimus dorsi flap with prosthesis implantation for breast reconstruction: A preliminary study with 2 case reports

BACKGROUD

An important drawback of the traditional technique for harvesting latissimus dorsi (LD) myocutaneous flap is a long, posterior donor-site incision. Current techniques involve endoscopic or robotic harvesting via a combined approach of open and closed surgery, which necessitates an open axillary incision and the use of special retractors. In this paper, we introduce a fully enclosed laparoscopic technique for harvesting LD flap (LDF) using only 3 small trocar ports. This technique eliminates the need for axillary and donor-site incisions and specialized retractors and considerably reduces the incision size.

METHODS

We performed laparoscopic harvesting of LDF with prosthesis implantation for immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) after nipple-sparing mastectomy in 2 patients with malignant breast neoplasm who wished to avoid a long scar on the back.

RESULTS

IBR using this technique was uneventful in both cases, without any donor-site complications or flap failure. Both patients were satisfied with the esthetic results of the procedure, especially the absence of a visible scar on the back.

CONCLUSION

Enclosed laparoscopic harvesting of LDF is simpler and less invasive than the traditional methods. These preliminary results warrant further evaluation in a larger population to validate the benefits of this technique.

Reconstruction of irradiated mandible after segmental resection of osteoradionecrosis-a technique employing a microvascular latissimus dorsi flap and subsequent particulate iliac bone grafting

The fibula osteocutaneous flap has revolutionized the options of mandibular segmental defect bridging in osteoradionecrosis (ORN). In selected cases, however, the fibula flap is not an option because of atherosclerosis or other features that compromise the vascularity of the lower leg and foot. The aim of this study is to present an alternative method of mandibular segmental reconstruction employing a latissimus dorsi (LD) flap and subsequent particulate iliac free bone graft reconstruction. In 15 patients with ORN, a mandibular segmental defect was bridged with a reconstruction plate, and the defect site was primed with a LD musculocutaneous flap wrapped around the reconstruction plate to bring in vascularized tissue and optimize healing conditions for a subsequent particulate iliac free bone graft reconstruction. The management of defect closure was successful in all 15 patients. Twelve patients had a subsequent bone grafting from the posterior ileum for repair of defects up to 14 cm length. Three patients had no bone graft for various reasons. In three patients dental rehabilitation was achieved with implant supported prosthodontic appliances. Ten patients met the success criteria of uneventful graft healing with restitution of osseous continuity, mandibular height, symmetry and function, and avoidance of reconstruction plate fracture.

Bone propeller flap: a staged procedure

The ideal reconstruction technique for complex defects of the lower limb consists of replacing tissue with similar tissue in an attempt to achieve a good functional result. A 23-year-old white male sustained a crush injury with a grade IIIB open ankle dislocation. After open reduction and fixation, the patient developed severe osteomyelitis at the tibiotalar joint requiring a staged and radical debridement with a substantial combined soft tissue and bony defect over the distal tibia, fibula, and talus area. The reconstructive approach consisted of a modified model of the propeller flap, implementing the spare part concept in a 2-stage procedure using a prefabricated and vascularized "double-barrel" fibular graft. At 17 months postoperatively, a plain radiograph showed bony union with complete and stable coverage of the soft tissue defect. The patient was fully weightbearing. In conclusion, there is evidence to suggest that the established concept of a soft tissue propeller flap can be implemented on bone.