OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility of segmentation of latissimus dorsi on the basis of anatomy and electrophysiology. METHODS: Ten cadaveric latissimus dorsi was dissected according to the blood supply, nerve innervation. Electromyelogram (EMG) of latissimus dorsi of 13 healthy persons was recorded with superficial electrode plate in the motion of shoulder joint. The results of record were managed with statistic methods. Ten patients(including reconstruction of breast and repair of scar on elbow joint and on chest wall) were treated with the lateral inferior myocutaneous island flap. RESULTS: According to the medial and lateral vasculonervous branches, latissimus dorsi can be divided into the medial superior and lateral inferior segments. The clinical application of the segment achieved good results in reconstructing breast and in repairing scars on elbow and on chest wall. CONCLUSION: Latissimus dorsi can be divided into two segments and applied separately. The lateral inferior segment is more useful in shoulder motion.
