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The latissimus dorsi is a broad, flat muscle occupying most of the lower posterior thorax (see Image. Surface Anatomy of the Thorax). The muscle's primary function is to move the upper extremity, but it is also considered an accessory muscle of respiration. Because of this muscle's broad attachment to several vertebral spinous processes and the thoracolumbar fascia, ongoing research examines its role in trunk movement. Currently, the evidence is mixed regarding the extent of this muscle's influence on spinal extension, lateral flexion, or rotation. Although the muscle has a broad attachment to the trunk and strong action on the humerus, using this muscle for surgical transposition appears to result in only a limited reduction in normal function.[1][2][3][4]