Latissimus

Latissimus Dorsi

The Latissimus Dorsi is a large, flat muscle on the back that stretches to the sides, behind the arm, and is partly covered by the Trapezius on the back near the midline.

Anatomy

The latissimus dorsi muscle is responsible for extension, adduction, transverse extension also known as horizontal abduction, flexion from an extended position, and (medial) internal rotation of the shoulder joint. It also has a synergistic role in extension and lateral flexion of the lumbar spine.

Function

Due to its attachment on the spine, the latissimus dorsi can also influence movement at the lumbar spine. With the arm fixed, it can pull on the spine to create lateral flexion and extension.

Clinical significance

The latissimus dorsi can be harvested (moved with its blood supply) for autotransplantation (moving body tissues from one part to another part of the body) in Breast reconstruction following mastectomy, usually for breast cancer.

See also

• List of muscles of the human body
• Teres major muscle
• Trapezius muscle

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