Extension or combination of an autologous latissimus dorsi flap in breast reconstruction

Abstract

The lateral thoracodorsal flap and the pedicled latissimus dorsi flap have been extensively described for breast reconstruction. In search of an alternative, non-microsurgical, autologous method of breast reconstruction we used both flaps combined to achieve adequate volume. The technique was used on three patients who had had a mastectomy at least two years previously. All flaps healed uneventfully with the appearance of an ordinary latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction. The method shows promising initial results and can be used as an alternative when reconstruction with autologous tissue is preferred.

• Latissimus dorsi
• autologous latissimus dorsi
• extended latissimus dorsi
• breast reconstruction
• lateral thoracodorsal flap