title: Flaps of the latissimus dorsi muscle in difficult wounds of the trunk and arm.
abstract: The latissimus dorsi muscle is uniquely positioned for extraordinary utility as a reconstructive tool. Its versatility in transfer as a muscle or myocutaneous flap unit permits closure of a variety of difficult, complex wounds of the trunk and arm. Eight cases are presented which illustrate numerous variations of flap design for reconstructing large wounds of the scapular region, the sternocostal region, the anterior thoracoabdominal region, the axilla and breast, the vertebral and paravertebral regions, the intrathoracic cavities associated with pleurocutaneous fistulae, and the arm. The flap may be based on either the proximal or distal blood supply. It may be transferred in a single unit or split longitudinally. It may or may not carry overlying skin of any size or configuration. Transfer without overlying skin is advocated when the flap is placed intrathoracically for pleurocutaneous fistula closure.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001132:Arm / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009132:Muscles / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013903:Thoracic Surgery