Extended latissimus dorsi flap with propeller ascending design for reconstruction of a complex lateral lumbar defect: A case report and review of the literature.

Lateral lumbar defects are rarely encountered and difficult to manage because of the limited reach of loco-regional flaps and the unfavorable position of recipient vessels for microsurgical transfer. The purpose of this report is to describe the innovative application of an extended latissimus dorsi (LD) flap with propeller ascending design in the field of lumbar reconstruction, reviewing current reconstructive options accepted for lateral lumbar defect. A 68-year-old male patient underwent wide full thickness resection for a solitary hepatocellular carcinoma metastatic lesion arising in the left lumbar region, resulting in an extensive soft-tissue defect (20 x 13 cm) with deep structures exposure. An extended LD flap with propeller ascending orientation was obliquely designed, with the distal third of the skin island laying over the trapezius muscle. The skin paddle measured 34 x 9 cm. The flap, including a cuff of proximal LD muscle spared by the oncological resection and a fasciocutaneous superior extension, underwent 90°clockwise rotation on the main thoracodorsal artery perforator and further caudal advancement allowed by section of the LD cranial tendinous insertion. The rotation-advancement movement allowed tension-free flap insetting, while donor site was closed by primary intention. The post-operative course was uneventful without any complications registered. At 12-months follow-up, a satisfactory result and a stable coverage were achieved. Due to the surgical complexity traditionally associated with the repair of defects located in the lumbar region, the case reported may help to provide a new alternative solution to extend the indications of local flaps in similar cases and simplify such reconstructions.