Optimization of microsurgery: improved coverage of the latissimus dorsi vascular pedicle with vascularized serratus fascia.

Abstract

The latissimus dorsi free flap is a workhorse for extremity reconstruction. One of its benefits is a long vascular pedicle that spans the zone of injury. However, it may be difficult to adequately cover this pedicle. Direct closure may be too tight, and skin grafting over the pedicle risks exposure if graft take is poor. We report a technique in which the serratus branch of the thoracodorsal artery and its overlying fascia are harvested en bloc with the thoracodorsal artery and latissimus muscle. This provides 2 flaps on a common pedicle that can easily be rotated to allow positioning and insetting. We successfully used this technique in the reconstruction of both upper and lower extremities. The serratus fascia provides excellent padded covering and is a good bed for skin grafting. The versatility of this hybrid flap will allow its use in a range of complex reconstructive procedures.