Latissimus dorsi flap refers to a method of breast reconstruction surgery in which muscles from the upper back are redirected underneath the skin to the chest area to build a new breast mound following a mastectomy. In some cases, physical therapy may be required after undergoing the latissimus dorsi method of surgery because of weakness that may develop in the upper back and arm where the tissue has been recruited.
Procedure
According to MayoClinic.com, breast reconstruction using the flap surgery method is considered the most complex option. The operation is classified as major surgery and the recovery time may be lengthy. During the surgery, not only is muscle from your back transferred to the breast site, but also skin, fat and blood vessels as well. In some cases breast implants are also needed to improve breast symmetry.
Recovery
In addition to being tired and sore after surgery, you may have a drainage tube in place to remove excess fluids. It may take up to six weeks to resume normal activities and intense exercise or overhead movements may be restricted. If weakness in the upper back at the site of the latissimus dorsi muscles is experienced, your doctor may prescribe additional physical therapy to strengthen your back and arms.
Therapy
The purpose of physical therapy following a flap procedure is to help improve strength in the affected muscles in the back, improve mobility in the trunk and shoulder, and eliminate problems with persistent pain. Therapeutic manual modalities such as lymphatic massage, joint mobilization and myofascial release may be used to help improve circulation and enhance healing. Physical exercises such as arm raises, triceps extensions and targeted stretches may be implemented in order to improve range-of-motion, increase muscle strength and improve flexibility.
Duration
A typical physical therapy session may last from one to two hours and involve several different modalities of treatment. Depending on your particular treatment plan, you may attend once or twice a week. Physical therapy will continue until your physician releases you, at which time he may prescribe a continuation of exercises to be done at home.
