8:41
Published February 20, 2026

Pedicled Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Elbow Flexion

Case: A 55-year-old male with prior radioulnar ORIF and brachial plexus neurolysis, presents with left arm pain and weakness and loss of active range of motion in elbow flexion. Elbow joint alignment was normal, with normal passive and active flexion of the wrist and fingers. Extension of the wrist and fingers, and pronation of the forearm were absent. Use of a pedicled latissimus dorsi (LD) flap to restore elbow function is a viable option due to increased stabilization of the anterior shoulder joint post-transfer, and its demonstration of good range of motion and patient outcomes. At 11 weeks post-op, the patient had 4/5 strength with elbow flexion and 5/5 strength with internal rotation.