Delayed breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap.

BACKGROUND

The ideal method of breast reconstruction should be safe, reliable, and have minimal or no donor-site morbidity. We present our experience with the latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap for delayed breast reconstruction with immediate permanent implant insertion.

METHODS

The latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap was performed on patients who presented for delayed breast reconstruction. From 1999 to 2007, charts of patients were reviewed for age, type of mastectomy, history of chest wall irradiation, nipple-areola complex reconstruction, and complications at both the donor site and the reconstructed breast site.

RESULTS

The latissimus dorsi was used as a musculocutaneous flap in 33 patients who had breast cancer surgery. The mean age was 51.14 (range = 30-63) years. Nine patients (27%) asked for nipple-areola reconstruction. Three patients had major complications (9%), including infection, partial flap ischemia, and liponecrotic pseudocysts. Eight patients required revision. Seroma was the most common problem observed at the donor site.

CONCLUSION

The latissimus dorsi flap provides adequate soft tissue with a reliable blood supply for the enhancement of missing tissue after mastectomy. It is a safe method for breast reconstruction and an excellent alternative flap for patients at high risk for abdominal flap complications.