Pre-expanded Muscle-sparing Latissimus Dorsi Flaps for Reconstruction of Severe Scar Contractures on the Anterior Chest

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the utility of pre-expanded muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi flaps in the reconstruction of deformities secondary to severe scar contractures on the anterior chest. Methods The function of the latissimus dorsi was preserved with blood supply from the main or lateral branch of the thoracodorsal artery. The entire treatment period was divided into two stages, during which segmental latissimus dorsi flaps were pre-expanded in stage I and anterior chest scar deformities were reconstructed in stage II. During stage I, the musculocutaneous perforators arising from the lateral branch of the thoracodorsal artery were determined by ultrasound preoperatively; the flap design included the anterior segment of the latissimus dorsi supplied by the musculocutaneous perforators from the lateral branch; and a tissue expander was placed following flap dissection and then infused with saline intermittently for 4–6 months. In stage II, the chest scars were excised, and breast tissues were repositioned; the continuity of the medial branch of the thoracodorsal nerve to the muscle was preserved when reconstruction was performed using the segmental latissimus dorsi flaps supplied by the main or lateral branch of the thoracodorsal artery. Results From October 2010 to October 2019, 21 patients (on 24 sides) underwent reconstructive procedures for extensive scar contractures on the anterior chest. All flaps survived, and their donor sites were sutured directly. During a follow-up of 3 months to 8 years, the flaps became soft and exhibited color similar to that of the adjacent tissues. The limited neck and shoulder movements improved, and postoperatively, all female patients were satisfied with the shape of their breasts. Additionally, neither apparent weakening on the adduction, internal rotation, or extension strength of the shoulder joint on the affected side nor marked depression deformity in the back was observed. Conclusion Pre-expanded muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi flaps with blood supply from the main or lateral branch of the thoracodorsal artery proved to be a desirable option for the reconstruction of extensive scar contractures on the anterior chest.