Hypoplasia of the latissimus dorsi muscle complicating breast reconstruction in Poland's syndrome

Abstract

Poland's syndrome includes anomalies of the breast, thorax, and upper extremity. Unilateral hypoplasia of the breast and pectoral muscle are seen most frequently, and the resulting problem of breast reconstruction must be addressed. The latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap is one of the most useful reconstructive tools in this situation. A case is presented of Poland's syndrome with hypoplasia of the latissimus dorsi muscle-an abnormality not generally associated with Poland's syndrome. The latissimus dorsi muscle should be carefully evaluated preoperatively in such patients, to make sure it is adequate for reconstructing the absent breast and pectoral muscle.