[Repair of large soft tissue defects in the lower extremity of children by bilateral latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap transference].

Large soft tissue defects of the lower extremity of 8 children was repaired with latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps. The age of the children ranged from 6 to 9 years. Both functional recovery and cosmetic appearance of the repaired limbs were satisfactory. Cross-bridge vascular anastomoses were used in four cases because no vessels were available for anastomosis at the recipient site. No significant functional impairments have been noted at the donor site. Operative techniques, indications for this procedure and related problems are discussed.