The Combined Scapular and Latissimus Dorsi Free Flap

견갑피판과 광배근피판의 이중유리피판이식술

Microvascular free tissue transfer technique is widely accepted for reconstruction of extensive soft tissue defects on the extremities. The system of flap based on the subscapular artery and vein provides the widest ways of composite free flaps. The possible flaps that can be harvested based on this single vascular pedicle include the scapular and parascapular skin flaps, the serratus anterior and latissimus dorsi muscular flaps, the lateral scapular bone flap, the latissimus dorsi-rib flap, and the serratus anterior-rib flap. This combined flap is available to mutiple tissue defects or complex defects because it can incorporated with skin, muscle and bone flaps. A strikig advantage is the independent vascular pedicles of each components, which allow freedom in orientation of each components. So, it can be freely applied to any forms of three demensional defects on the upper and lower extremities. The combination of scapular cutaneous flap and latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap can be resurfaced for massive cutaneous defects on the extremities. We report the use of the combined scapular and latissimus dorsi free flap in seven patients to reconstruct massive deefcts on the extremities. There was no flap failure and little complications and disadvantages. The anatomy of this flap is reviewed and the indication and advantages are discussed.