The Versatility, Plasticity and Esthetic Aspect of Latissimus Dorsi Muscle-Cutaneous Flap in Breast Reconstruction - Case Report.

Background: The reconstruction of the breast with latissimus dorsi muscle-cutaneous flap and implant continues to be a reliable and easy to perform method, both by the experienced surgeons and also for the beginners. Case presentation: This article describes the case of a 38-year old woman who underwent breast reconstruction after 5 months from the mastectomy. After the clinical and paraclinical evaluation, all reconstruction options were presented to her, with advantages and disadvantages. Following the detailed pre-operatory evaluation and observing, as much as possible, the desires of the patient - to have a bigger breast compared to the amputated one and, at the same time, with an as natural as possible aspect, observing the integrity of the abdominal wall and the possibility to hide the scar of the donor area at the back - the surgical team together with the patient decided the reconstruction of the right breast with latissimus dorsi muscle - cutaneous flap and silicone implant (295cc). Even if the specialty literature presents this technique with some disadvantages in the final results and functionality of the ipsilateral shoulder, in this case the latissimus dorsi muscle-cutaneous flap offered a good coverage with satisfactory cosmetic outcome and proper functionality of the shoulder. Conclusions: Through the approach of a standardized protocol and adjusted to the requirements and anatomic possibilities of the patient, the breast reconstruction with LD and implant remains one of the most versatile techniques of reconstruction and which local complications are comparable to the ones in the esthetic mammary augmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]