ABSTRACT
AIM OF THE STUDY: The latissimus dorsi flap is commonly used for breast reconstruction. Donor site morbidity is the major side effect of this surgery. However, if the impact of the latissimus dorsi muscle removal on daily living activities has already been studied, few data are available about its consequences on sporting activities. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Our retrospective monocentric study reviewed 75 consecutive female patients who underwent latissimus dorsi muscle transfer for breast reconstruction with a mean follow-up of 32.4 months. Patients had to answer a questionnaire per phone about their sporting, daily living and working activities before and after surgery. If they felt any changes after surgery, the type of limitation was detailed (pain, strength, endurance). RESULTS: We showed a reduction in sporting activities for 43% patients practising a sport using the upper limb compared to 19% for them using the lower limb (P<0.05%). Eighty-three percent of the patients felt restricted for at less one activity of daily living. 5.2% had to adapt their working conditions after surgery. CONCLUSION: The reduction in sporting activities using the upper limb after surgery suggests a negative impact of the surgery. However, other factors than the latissimus dorsi muscle removal might contribute to this reduction.
