Late results and current indications of latissimus dorsi breast reconstructions.
One hundred and fifty latissimus dorsi flaps were used in 145 patients out of a series of 483 breast reconstructions performed from 1977 to 1988. There were few immediate complications and a durable, good cosmetic result was obtained in two-thirds of the 103 cases reviewed after at least one year. The main reasons for dissatisfaction with long-term results were capsular contracture (grades III and IV) and upper displacement of the implant. The rate of these late complications was 30%, the same as found in the simpler subpectoral reconstruction. However, prostheses with a thick outer envelope induced only 10% of severe capsular contracture. Reconstructions with autologous tissue are currently replacing latissimus dorsi flap reconstructions unless local or general conditions contraindicate such major surgery or when the patient lacks motivation.
De Mey
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Department of Plastic Surgery, Brussels Free University, Brugmann Hospital, Belgium.
Lejour
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M
Declety
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Meythiaz
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AM
D001415:Back; D001940:Breast / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008408:Mastectomy; D009132:Muscles / Q000637:transplantation; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000379:methods