The Versatile Use of the Latissimus Dorsi Muscle Flap in Electrical Burn Injuries

Abstract

Electricity is an indispensable part of civilization. It is often taken for granted, and can sometimes take away limbs, and at times, life. When a human being comes in contact with electricity, burns can ensue. These electrical burns are the most devastating of all thermal injuries on a size for size basis⁵ and involve skin and deeper tissues. 90% of electrical injuries are accidental and nearly two-thirds occur at the work spot. Young, working males are commonly affected with frequent amputation of dominant limbs. This paper analyses the different uses of the latissimus dorsi muscle flap in the reconstruction of electrical burn raw areas and in the salvage of the amputation stumps.