[Analysis of 163 latissimus dorsi muscle flaps]

During the last 9 years, 163 latissimus dorsi flaps (LTD) were used in our department for different kinds of reconstructions. The indications for raising this flap were various. The pedicled flap (129 cases) provided an adequate solution for breast reconstruction (109 cases). As a free tissue transfer (34 cases) the LTD flap was mainly used for head and neck reconstruction (12 cases) after removal of infiltrating tumours. In the lower limb (12 cases) this myocutaneous flap remained an ultimate solution for coverage of open fractures, exposed osteosynthesis material and for treatment of chronic osteomyelitis. The authors further stress the constant anatomy and the ease of dissection. Removal of the muscle leaves minimal functional donor deficits. The high success rate of 95% as a pedicled flap and of 94% as a free flap highlight the reliability of the LTD flap and advocate its use for "all seasons".