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Pelvic reconstruction using vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flaps
Edward Wayne Buchel1, Stephen Finical, Craig Johnson
1Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA. buchel.edward@mayo.edu
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|December 17, 2003
Summary
Vertical rectus abdominis flaps effectively reconstruct complex perineal wounds, reducing serious complications. This method offers a high rate of primary healing for challenging cases, improving patient outcomes in perineal reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Complex perineal wounds from surgery or radiation therapy lead to significant patient morbidity.
- Acute complications range from 25% to 60%, with serious complications in 25% to 46% of cases.
- Musculocutaneous or omental flaps are common reconstructive options for nonhealing perineal wounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of vertical rectus abdominis flaps in reconstructing complex perineal wounds.
- To assess complication rates and healing outcomes following vertical rectus abdominis flap reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 73 patients undergoing perineal reconstruction using vertical rectus abdominis flaps.
- Analysis of acute and serious complication rates, reoperation requirements, and wound healing timelines.
Main Results:
- Acute perineal wound complications occurred in 17.8% of patients.
- Serious complications requiring reoperation were observed in only 3.5% of cases.
- Primary healing was achieved in 84.9%, with 94.5% of patients healed within 30 days; one flap failure occurred.
Conclusions:
- Vertical rectus abdominis flaps are well-suited for reconstructing perineal defects, particularly those involving irradiated tissue.
- This technique significantly reduces complication rates compared to traditional methods.
- The transpelvic vertical rectus flap is a reliable option for challenging perineal wound reconstruction.