Latissimus dorsi muscle flap

Abstract

The latissimus dorsi muscle is the largest muscle in the body, measuring up to 20 Â 40 cm. The latissimus dorsi muscle is the largest single transplantable block of vascularised tissue allowing coverage of larger wounds. It is one of the most versatile free musculocutaneus flaps available. Its size allows it to be used to cover defects of great magnitude. The ability to tailor and trim the muscle, taking only the size required, dramatically increases its versatility. The muscle is extremely malleable and may be folded, turned, rolled under and stuffed into cavities and wounds of all sizes and shapes with cut component [1].