Latissimus dorsi muscle free flap revisited: a novel endoscope-assisted approach

Achieving a functionally favorable and aesthetically acceptable outcome in oncologic and reconstructive surgery is important in the current era. Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap is traditionally performed with a large incision in lateral position. We report an endoscope-assisted harvest of LD muscle free flap in supine position to avoid a large scar and facilitate a two-team approach for oral cavity reconstruction.

Consecutive case series.

Four consecutive patients underwent LD muscle free flap for various oral cavity reconstructions. LD muscle free flaps were harvested under endoscope assistance.

Endoscope-assisted LD free-flap harvest allowed a small incision in the axillary pit, which can be easily concealed without change of patient position, resulting in shortened operative time. Endoscopic harvest caused no acute complications, and donor site morbidity was minimal. Reconstructions with endoscope-assisted LD muscle free flap of the oral cavity defect site were successful in all cases.

Endoscope-assisted LD muscle free flap is a feasible and practical option for the reconstruction of selective oral cavity defects with aesthetically excellent donor site scar.