Salvaging severely crushed upper limb with brachioradialis and latissimus dorsi muscle flaps: a case report

Introduction: Trauma that affects the elbow region may result in significant soft tissue defect with exposure of the antecubital neurovascular and other vital structures. In this case study role of brachioradialis and latissimus dorsi muscles in reconstruction of complex upper limb defect is evaluated. Case Study: A fifty year old patient presented with severe crush injury to right upper limb which was salvaged with three staged surgical procedures. Brachioradialis and latissimus dorsi muscle flaps and split skin grafting were used for this complex reconstruction of upper limb Conclusion: The brachioradialis muscle flap is reliable option for coverage of the anterior defects of the elbow. It has a good blood supply and there is minimal functional morbidity when it is used. The latissimus dorsi muscle flap is one of the most reliable and versatile flaps used in reconstructive surgery. Pedicled Latissimus dorsi muscle with split thickness skin graft is the primary choice for reconstruction of large complex arm and elbow defects.