ABSTRACT
[Objective]To discuss the result of using latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap which function was recovered by repairing the thoracodorsal nerve with nerve transfering for reconstruction of flexor of elbow or digits in brachial plexus injury patients.[Method]From march 2000 to June 2003,eight patients with brachial plexus total roots avulsion were treated by mlutiple donor nerves transfer.The function of latissimus dorsi muscle recorved well but not the biceps muscle in five patients.The function of flex digits did not recover while the latissimus dorsi muscule recorverd well in three patients.All of them had the aid of latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap to reconstruct the flexor of elbow or digits.[Result]The patients were followed up for one year to half past three years,all of musculocutaneous flap were survived,the muscle strenght graded 3 to 4 and the active motion of the elbow was over 100 degrees in flexion and 10 degrees to 25 degrees in extension.All the digits can grasp,the fist closure was about 2 cm and the muscle strenght was grade 3 of the involved digits.[Conclusion]It is a good method to reconstruct the flexor of elbow or digits by the recovered latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap in brachial plexus total roots avulsion patients.When treating brachial plexus total roots avulsion patients,it is necessary to repair the thoracodorsal nerve.