Objective Comparison of Donor-Site Morbidity following Full and Thoracodorsal Nerve-Preserving Split Latissimus Dorsi Flaps

Background: The latissimus dorsi flap is a workhorse for reconstruction. However, flap harvest has been variably reported to result in donor-site morbidity. The aim of this study was to compare donor-site morbidity following harvest of a split latissimus dorsi flap, preserving the anterior branch of the thoracodorsal nerve, and a traditional nerve-sacrificing full latissimus dorsi flap. Methods: Patients who underwent split or full latissimus dorsi flaps between July of 2017 and August of 2020 at a single center were recalled for assessment. Donor-site morbidity in the shoulder was evaluated through the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire; the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index; and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons questionnaire. Medical Research Council strength grading was also performed. Results: A total of 22 patients in the split latissimus dorsi cohort and 22 patients in the full latissimus dorsi cohort were recalled. Patient-reported outcomes as assessed through the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire; Shoulder Pain and Disability Index; and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons questionnaire scores revealed statistically greater (p < 0.05) donor-site morbidity associated with the traditional compared to split latissimus dorsi flap. Seven patients in the full latissimus dorsi cohort had less than Medical Research Council grade 5 power at the shoulder, whereas all patients in the split latissimus dorsi cohort demonstrated full power at the shoulder. Conclusions: Traditional full latissimus dorsi flaps were found to result in greater donor-site morbidity compared to thoracodorsal nerve-preserving split latissimus dorsi flaps. Split latissimus dorsi flaps may be beneficial in preserving donor-site function and strength.