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Semin Plast Surg 2011; 25(1): 043-054
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1275170
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Workhorse Flaps in Chest Wall Reconstruction: The Pectoralis Major, Latissimus Dorsi, and Rectus Abdominis Flaps

Karim Bakri1 , Samir Mardini1 , Karen K. Evans2 , Brian T. Carlsen1 , Phillip G. Arnold1
  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
  • 2Division of Plastic Surgery, Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Department of Plastic Surgery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
05 April 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Large and life-threatening thoracic cage defects can result from the treatment of traumatic injuries, tumors, infection, congenital anomalies, and radiation injury and require prompt reconstruction to restore respiratory function and soft tissue closure. Important factors for consideration are coverage with healthy tissue to heal a wound, the potential alteration in respiratory mechanics created by large extirpations or nonhealing thoracic wounds, and the need for immediate coverage for vital structures. The choice of technique depends on the size and extent of the defect, its location, and donor site availability with consideration to previous thoracic or abdominal operations. The focus of this article is specifically to describe the use of the pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, and rectus abdominis muscle flaps for reconstruction of thoracic defects, as these are the workhorse flaps commonly used for chest wall reconstruction.

KEYWORDS

Chest wall reconstruction - flap - latissimus dorsi - pectoralis major - rectus abdominis - sternal osteomyelitis

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Karen K EvansM.D. 

Division of Plastic Surgery, Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center

50 Irving Street, Washington, DC 20422

Email: karenkim90@hotmail.com

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