Abstract:

Objective To evaluate the results of immediate breast reconstruction with extended latissimus dorsi flap in patients with breast cancer following mastectomy. Methods The clinical data of the patients who have undergone immediate breast reconstruction with extended latissimus dorsi flap following mastectomy dating from December 2004 to October 2006 were collected. The operative technical detail, postoperative complications, esthetical results and patient satisfactions were analyzed. Results Fourteen patients with breast cancer underwent immediate breast reconstruction with extended latissmus dorsi flap following mastectomy, including stage Ⅰ, Ⅱa, Ⅱb , Ⅲa in 3, 7, 3, and one patient respectively. The mean age was 43 years(range, 24～51). The length of follow-up ranged from 3 to 24 months. There were no flap losses; Donor site seroma occurred in 5 patients(35.7%), one of which required surgical correction of non-resolving seroma, the others disappeared after repeated aspiration. Wound infection was not observed. One patient developed minor wound dehiscence. 9 patients were very satisfied with the reconstructive breast, 4 satisfied, 1 considered the result to be fair. None of the patients was not satisfied. Conclusion In selected patients with breast cancer the extended latissimus dorsi flap is a relatively easy and reliable method for total autologous breast reconstruction. However, this flap's main disadvantage is donor-site morbidity with prolonged drainage and risk of seroma.

Key words: breast cancer, mastectomy, breast reconstruction, extended latissimus dorsi flap