Restoration of quadriceps femoris function with a dynamic microsurgical free latissimus dorsi muscle transfer.

Abstract

Loss of knee extension caused by quadriceps femoris muscle disruption can be a disabling injury. Attempts at reconstructing the large muscle deficit after oncological resections of the quadriceps have previously had some success using a dynamic free latissimus dorsi muscle transfer. This concept proved to be similarly valuable after a gunshot wound to the thigh resulted in an isolated loss of the quadriceps mechanism. A reinnervated latissimus dorsi muscle bridging the quadriceps muscle gap proved to have active contraction and permitted full active knee extension, demonstrating the value of this muscle also for restoration of function after traumatic injuries.