Dorsal decubitus positioning: a novel method to harvest the latissimus dorsi flap for massive upper extremity defect...

The latissimus dorsi, whether taken as a muscle or with a skin paddle, is one of the most useful flaps in the reconstructive surgeon's arsenal. With its predictable type V vascular pedicle, this broad muscle can be elevated on its dominant thoracodorsal pedicle or used in a reverse manner on its secondary thoracic and lumbar perforators. Traditionally harvested in a lateral decubitus position, over the last 10 years we have chosen to elevate this muscle in a dorsal decubitus position, enabling 2 surgical teams to operate simultaneously. With only one cushion placed along the vertebral column between the scapulas, each element of the subscapular system, including scapular bone, can be used to reconstruct complex upper limb defects. A vertical incision in front of the anterior axillary line is performed to identify the anterior border of the muscle, followed by a dissection in the submuscular plane to reveal the thoracodorsal pedicle and its branches. When a more complex chimeric flap is required, scapular bone, serratus muscle, and scapular or parascapular fasciocutaneous flaps are all available. To achieve the longest length possible, the pedicle can be isolated from the axillary vessels. The most common complications are related to donor site, with seroma and delayed wound healing being the most prevalent. Complaints of shoulder pain and functional disability were rare and mostly encountered in the first 2 weeks postoperatively.