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Abdominal wall reconstruction (the "mutton chop" flap).
D G Dibbell1, R C Mixter, D G Dibbell
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Wisconsin Hospital, Madison.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|January 11, 1991
Summary
This study highlights the successful use of myofascial and myocutaneous flaps for reconstructing large abdominal wall defects, avoiding prosthetic mesh complications. The extended rectus femoris flap is particularly effective for epigastric reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Reconstruction
- Plastic Surgery
- Abdominal Wall Defect Repair
Background:
- Reconstructing full-thickness abdominal wall defects presents significant surgical challenges.
- The epigastric region is particularly difficult to repair.
- Prosthetic mesh use has notable drawbacks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of myofascial and myocutaneous flaps in reconstructing massive abdominal wall defects.
- To present a technique for epigastric reconstruction using the extended rectus femoris flap.
- To demonstrate an alternative to prosthetic mesh in abdominal wall reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- A consecutive series of 15 patients underwent abdominal wall reconstruction.
- Myofascial and myocutaneous flaps were utilized exclusively, without prosthetic mesh.
- The extended rectus femoris flap ("mutton chop" flap) was described for epigastric coverage.
Main Results:
- Highly successful reconstructions were achieved in all 15 cases.
- Complications associated with the flap reconstructions were minimal.
- The extended rectus femoris flap proved capable of resurfacing the epigastrium effectively.
Conclusions:
- Myofascial and myocutaneous flaps offer an advantageous approach to abdominal wall reconstruction.
- The extended rectus femoris flap is a viable and effective option for epigastric defect repair.
- These flap techniques should be considered the method of choice for major abdominal wall deficits, avoiding prosthetic mesh.