Design of Mini Latissimus Dorsi Flap Based on Thoracodorsal Vascular Patterns

Introduction Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap has been used for reconstructive purposes in oncoplastic breast surgery. Using large part of the muscle as a flap leads to a residual functional loss. Muscle sparing and mini LD flaps can be used with no functional sequelae. However, the design of such flap presents a challenge. Methods Twenty cadavers were dissected on both sides to identify the different vascular patterns of the thoracodorsal (TD) pedicle. The vessels were counted, and the following measurements were taken: diameter, length, distance from inferior angel of scapula, and vertebral level. Data were collected and entered into the personal computer. Statistical analysis was done using (SPSS/version 20) software. Results Five vascular patterns of TD pedicle were found. Type 1: a long vertically descending pedicle giving 3 to 4 transverse medial branches to LD in 40%. Type 2: a short pedicle terminating into 1 to 2 serratus anterior collaterals and 1 to 2 transverse lateral branches to LD in 10%. Type 3: a long vertically descending pedicle giving 2 to 3 small lateral branches to upper part of LD and terminating into medial and lateral branches in the lower part of LD in 10%. Type 4: a short pedicle that gives 4 to 5 terminal branches to LD, one of them is a long vertically descending branch to lower part of LD in 20%. Type 5: a short pedicle that terminates into a transverse medial and a long vertical branch to LD in 20%. Conclusion The classically described pattern of TD pedicle (type 5) was found in 20% of cases, whereas the most commonly found pattern was type 1. This means that the pattern of TD branching is unpredictable, and a preoperative ultrasound is essential to define the existing pattern and plan the best LD flap design for each patient. In types 1 and 5, the flap can be designed using the transverse medial branch or branches. In type 2, one of the lateral transverse branches can be used. In types 3, 4, and 5, the long descending vertical branch can be used. It has a sizeable diameter (1.80.23 mm), length (12.31.64 cm), and can be located 6.50.96 cm below the inferior angle of scapula.