The latissimus dorsi flap - still a valuable tool in breast reconstruction: Report of 32 cases

Abstract

Breast reconstruction with a pedicled latissimus dorsi flap (LDF), with or without implants, is an established method. At the Breast Cancer Unit, Huddinge University Hospital, 32 patients with soft tissue deficiencies of the chest such as damaged skin or lack of pectoral muscle after the initial operation, or complications of radiotherapy had breasts reconstructed with a pedicled LDF during the years 2002–2004. We made a retrospective assessment of the results of this procedure, which showed that the pedicled LDF, usually combined with an implant, still should be considered as an option to microsurgery as it is safe, with great satisfaction and few complications.

• Latissimus dorsi
• breast reconstructions
• complications
• crescent-shaped expander