The Thin Latissimus Dorsi Perforator-Based Free Flap for Resurfacing

Abstract

The authors present their experience with “thin” latissimus dorsi perforator-based free flaps for resurfacing defects. Perforator-based free flaps have been used for various kinds of reconstruction by preserving important donor structures. The thin latissimus dorsi perforatorbased free flap included only the skin and superficial adipose layer to reduce its bulkiness by dissection through the superficial fascial plane.

This flap was used in 12 clinical cases, without flap necrosis or other serious postoperative complications. All of the patients were examined by preoperative power Doppler ultrasound in the spectral Doppler mode to search for the most reliable perforator. This noninvasive ultrasound technique determines the exact location and course of and ensures the reliable flow of the perforators; therefore, it greatly assists microsurgeons in saving operation time and in selecting the most suitable design for perforator flap reconstruction. We used perforators that were identified several centimeters from the lateral border of the latissimus dorsi muscle. The thin flap dimensions could be safely designed for flaps measuring up to 20 cm in length and 8 cm in width for primary closure of the donor site. Generally, a long pedicle is not required for resurfacing reconstructions, where small recipient arteries in the bed are acceptable for anastomosis with pedicles. However, pedicle dissection to the proximal vessels through the latissimus dorsi muscle was required when it was necessary to match the recipient vein for anastomosis.

The authors conclude that this thin latissimus dorsi perforator-based free flap has great potential for resurfacing because of its constant thickness, easy elevation with the help of power Doppler ultrasound information, and proper flap size for moderate defects caused by scar contracture release, superficial tumor ablation, and so on. (Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 107: 374, 2001.)