Quality of life and Shoulder Function after Latissimus Dorsi Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction using a latissimus dorsi flap impacts one of the principal muscles of the shoulder. There is therefore concern that this procedure could impair shoulder function. The primary objective of this study was to study the effect of breast reconstruction using the latissimus dorsi flap on patient reported shoulder function and quality of life, compared to women who underwent total mastectomy without reconstruction.