The "reverse" latissimus dorsi muscle and musculocutaneous flap: anatomical and clinical considerations.

A "reverse," posteriorly based transposition of a latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap on its segmental blood supply is presented. This adds new possibilities to this versatile and reliable musculocutaneous unit. The variable modes of blood supply to the musculocutaneous units are discussed, and the question of the strategic vascular and neurosympathetic delays are raised.