Full thickness chest wall reconstruction after tumor resection by myocutaneous flap

Full thickness chest wall defects result when a chest wall tumor resection is necessary. The feasibility of a reconstruction is sometimes unfamiliar to the oncologist or thoracic surgeon; this can be the reason for refusing the possibility of surgical resection or inappropriate coverage of the defect. Our experiences over the last 7 years in collaboration between plastic the thoracic surgical services, shows that it is generally possible to utilize a myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of even extensive full thickness chest wall defects. The reconstruction of any full thickness chest wall defect after tumor resection by myocutaneous flaps is almost always possible with low mortality, acceptable morbidity and good results, mechanically and aesthetically. The experience with the different reconstruction techniques clearly shows the preference for the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap, but also emphazises that the other kinds of reconstruction must be kept in mind for special indications.