Latissimus dorsi tendon transfers: a historical journey

Abstract

Several latissimus dorsi tendon transfer techniques for shoulder problems have been previously described and developed. These techniques involve the transfer in obstetric palsy, transfer in irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears and subscapularis tears, and transfer in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. We detail the differences in planning and surgery and the need for different approaches. This historical and technical description provided in this study will benefit surgeons wishing to use the procedure.