Latissimus dorsi free flaps for complex ischiosacral defects

Background Free tissue transfer for coverage of complex wounds in the ischial and sacral area can be limited by the lack of adequate recipient vessels. Methods We reviewed the records of 3 patients seen between August 2002 and December 2005 who underwent free tissue transfer to ischiosacral defects. Results Two patients were quadriplegic, and 1 patient was ambulatory. The gluteal vessels were used as recipients in 2 patients, and 1 patient had an arteriovenous loop to the femoral vessels. All flaps were successful and all wounds healed. Conclusions A free latissimus flap to the ischiosacral area can be effective, and both local (gluteal) and regional (femoral) vessels can serve as recipient vessels.