Functional sequelae following bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi flap: Medium-term follow-up

AbstractArm morbidity following unilateral Latissimus Dorsi (LD) flap harvest is controversial and bilateral harvest is considered potentially disabling. Arm and shoulder disability was investigated in patients undergoing bilateral mastectomy and immediate LD flap reconstruction. Thirty consecutive bilateral immediate reconstructions with denervated LD flaps, performed between 2005–2009, were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were assessed for arm function by conducting the Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) test, between 12–51 months after surgery (mean 23 months). Disability scores ranged from 1–100%, with 1–25% being regarded as mild dysfunction, 26–50% as moderate dysfunction, 51–75% as severe dysfunction, and 76–100% as total dysfunction. A statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher exact test and the multivariate linear regression model for variables. The Global Mean Dash score was 14.8%. Twenty-four patients presented a mild functional deficit (< 25%), while six presented a moder...