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Technical Considerations and Clinical Applications of the Free Anterior Branch Split Latissimus Dorsi Flap
Rachel N Cohen-Shohet1, Sonja S Samant, Harvey Chim
1From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL.
Background:
The free anterior branch split latissimus dorsi flap has a reliable anatomy and advantages over the traditional latissimus dorsi flap. By preserving the posterior branch of the thoracodorsal nerve, morbidity at the donor site is reduced, preserving shoulder strength.
Methodology:
The purpose of this article is to review our experience with the split latissimus flap, describe our surgical technique, and finally review representative cases of reconstruction in different anatomical regions.
Results:
From April 2017 to October 2020, 39 free split latissimus flaps were performed at a single center. Flaps were performed for coverage in the upper extremity (n = 2), lower extremity (n = 32), and head and neck (n = 5). Flap success rate was 97.4%. Mean dimensions of the flap were 17.0 × 8.3 cm, with a mean area of 145 cm2.
Conclusions:
The flap has a broad application and can be utilized in many different reconstructive scenarios including for coverage of defects in the extremities, trunk, and head and neck.
