Back closure with a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap

A method of back closure with the use of latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap in cases of myelomeningocele is reported. A three-layer cover consisting of the skin, subcutaneous fat, and the muscle with proper innervation and blood supply of the flap permits successful closure of large defects. Well-vascularized coverage prevents common complications such as partial necrosis of the flap or wound breakdown and consequent infection of the central nervous system. This report is based on 30 cases of newborns with large thoracolumbar myelomeningocele.