[Evaluation of shoulder function after removal of the latissimus dorsi muscle for surgical flap].

The latissimus dorsi muscle is frequently used in reconstructive surgery. The present study was undertaken to determine the post-operative function of the shoulder girdle with respect to dominance in 26 patients following latissimus dorsi flap transplantation mainly for soft tissue coverage in the lower leg. The patients were interviewed and examined, with special attention being paid to shoulder mobility, dexterity and muscular strength. On interview, a considerable majority felt that very good results had been achieved. Raising the latissimus dorsi flap did however influence shoulder retroversion, particularly when surgery was performed on the non-dominant side. The influence of dominance was further noted as regards inward rotation of the shoulder and the ability to lead the hand backward over the shoulder. Dexterity was determined by a modified tapping test in the sagittal plane. Other than a minor correlation with age, post-operative function depended on whether the latissimus dorsi flap had been raised from the dominant or non-dominant shoulder. No effect of operation or dominance was observed in terms of isometric muscular strength, measured with an electronic device (Hottinger-Baldwin-Messtechnik). We believe that the function of the latissimus dorsi muscle can be compensated for by synergistic muscles. Yet, in rehabilitation, particular attention must be paid to the function of the non-dominant shoulder since it is used less in daily activity.