Breast reconstruction using latissimus dorsi muscle flap: a novel surgical technique with reduced scarring

Background: The latissimus dorsi muscle flap is one of the most commonly used surgical options for breast reconstruction. The donor area scar on the back, although sometimes hidden beneath the bra strap, is often extensive and enlarged or hypertrophic. The aim of this study is to describe the dissection and rotation of the latissimus dorsi muscle using 2 reduced vertical incisions. Methods: Twelve female patients underwent unilateral breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi muscle flap. Ten patients had Poland’s syndrome, and their breast reconstruction was performed with a tissue expander at the first instance, with subsequent latissimus dorsi muscle flap rotation to cover the silicone prosthesis. Two patients experienced volume decrease, irregularities, and breast retractions after adenomastectomy; their prosthesis were also covered by a latissimus dorsi muscle flap. The surgical procedure consisted of a 5-cm longitudinal incision on the lateral border of the latissimus dorsi muscle and another on the inframammary fold. Dissection, section, and rotation of the muscle were performed through skin retraction. Results: The final extension of the scar at follow-up averaged 6.2 cm. The mean surgical time for flap rotation and synthesis of the donor area was 80 minutes. No postoperative complications were observed in any of the cases. Conclusions: The reduced incision for dissection of the latissimus dorsi flap for breast reconstruction proved to be feasible and safe; this method provides aesthetic advantages without increasing cost or surgical time.