Abstract
Autologous breast reconstruction with the latissimus dorsi (LD) musculocutaneous flap has several problems including scarcity of tissue and postoperative atrophy of muscles. We report a modification of the flap based on a re-evaluation of the intramuscular and perforating vascular anatomy focused on the intercostal vascular system. Our anatomical study confirmed the following technical improvements: splitting of the muscle oriented along the 10th posterior intercostal artery; siting the axis of the flap on the centre of the 10th lateral intercostal artery perforator to obtain ample subcutaneous fat cranial to the iliac crest; and enclosing the dermoadipofascial flap around the split muscular pedicle. These flaps were used in 12 patients who required reconstruction without implants. The results showed a consistent volume of tissue and shape, and less donor site morbidity. Our modifications can be used to improve the three-dimensional potential of the LD flap in autologous breast reconstruction.
Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.