Latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap for secondary head and neck reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To review our experience and results with the use of pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap (LDMF) for secondary reconstruction in head and neck surgery. METHODS: Twenty-two patients had LDMF, 17 of them for secondary reconstruction. Data were collected regarding the primary surgery, primary method of reconstruction, indication for secondary reconstruction, and outcome. RESULTS: Seventeen LDMF procedures were performed for secondary reconstruction. Flap success rate was 100%. Reconstructive goals were achieved immediately in 16 (94.1%) patients. CONCLUSION: LDMF is a thin flap with a large surface area and a long pedicle that allows it to reach any region in the head, neck, and scalp. Its main disadvantages are the need for lateral positioning of the patient and the fact that its pedicle is not protected with muscle. In our experience, LDMF provides an excellent reconstructive option especially in complicated cases of secondary reconstruction. It may be used in cases where a free flap is usually used, but with significantly reduced surgical time.