Projects

The Latissimus Dorsi is a useful free flap for coverage of extensive defects of the lower limb. In such cases, despite successful microvascular coverage, the patient may still be crutch dependent. In such circumstances, the Latissimus Dorsi is an important muscle for crutch walking. "Do not burn your bridges" is an important rule in reconstructive surgery. We have reviewed the literature regarding shoulder weakness after Latissimus Dorsi harvest and presented a simple rule regarding choice of side when this flap is used for lower extremity defects. We also present a case where we had an opportunity to apply this rule.