Reconstruction of the chest wall

Chest wall reconstructions can be a complex and challenging procedure and may require a multidisciplinary approach. The most common indications for chest wall reconstruction are repair of defects due to tumor resection, infection, radiation necrosis, congenital deformities or trauma. The repair of complex chest wall defects presents a challenging problem for the reconstructive surgeon. Although the majority of such defects can be repaired with the use of local and regional musculocutaneous flaps, more complicated cases require increasingly sophisticated reconstructive techniques. As defects increase in size, microsurgical techniques are necessary to augment blood flow to pedicled flaps or to provide free flap coverage from distant sites. A better understanding of the respiratory mechanics and local anatomy is crucial in managing these complex defects.