BACKGROUND: Wide excision of large cancers or extensive trauma may result in very wide and long defects which need special reconstruction. One of the options for the extraordinary conditions is the combined latissimus dorsi and groin ( or SCIP) flap.In the recent 36 years we classify the cases into 4 categories and propose the precautions for using this conjoined flaps.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: From 1984 to 2019 a total of 8 cases were reviewed. They were classified into 4 types: (1) pedicled flap of latissimus dorsi flap with groin flap as free flap. (2) pedicled groin flap with latissimus dorsi flap as free flap. (3) both latissimus dorsi and groin flaps were pedicled flaps. (4) both latissimus dorsi and groin flaps were free flaps. The intra-operative findings, postoperative course, and complications were recorded and analyzed.
RESULTS: All flaps survived very well because great caution was taken in dealing with such a big wound. Only one patient had secondary surgery for partial loss of skin graft, but the flaps were healthy. Two patients of phyloides tumor and one case of neurofibroma had recurrence. One patient of colon cancer had lung metastasis and died 3 years later.
CONCLUSION: The combined latissimus dorsi and groin (or SCIP) flap provides very wide and long flap for reconstruction of large defects following wide excision of tumors or major trauma. Three kinds of application have been developedn according to different tissue requirement.