Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open
Endoscopic-assisted Versus Open Latissimus Dorsi Flap Harvest for Breast Reconstruction: A Randomized Comparative Study
By Fayek M, Salah Y, Aboul Nasr LA and 2 others.
Abstract
Background
The latissimus dorsi (LD) flap remains a reliable option for breast reconstruction; however, the long donor-site scar represents a major concern. Endoscopic-assisted LD flap harvest has been introduced to improve cosmetic outcomes while maintaining reconstructive efficacy. The current study evaluates endoscopic-assisted LD flap harvest for breast reconstruction and compares it with the open technique regarding donor-site morbidity, cosmetic outcome, patient satisfaction, and operative variables.
Methods
A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at Kasr Al Ainy Hospital between January 2023 and July 2025. Fifty-nine female patients (60 flaps) seeking breast reconstruction (without skin deficiency or requiring a skin island ≤6 cm in the longest dimension) were included. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo an endoscopic-assisted (group A) or open (group B) LD flap harvest. Ethical approval was obtained from Cairo University (approval no.: MD-242-2023).