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Experience with 80 rectus abdominis free-tissue transfers.
N B Meland1, J Fisher, G B Irons
1Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Rectus abdominis free-tissue transfers show low donor-site morbidity in 80 patients. This muscle flap is a reliable option for reconstructive surgery due to its ease of use and high success rate.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Rectus abdominis free-muscle transfer is a reconstructive technique.
- Donor-site morbidity is a key consideration in free-tissue transfer outcomes.
Observation:
- Eighty patients undergoing rectus abdominis free-tissue transfers between 1983 and 1986 were evaluated for donor-site complications.
- Flaps were utilized for lower extremities (62), head and neck (15), arm (2), and intrathoracic (1) reconstructions.
- Common indications included osteomyelitis (33), soft-tissue defects (26), and facial augmentation (14).
Findings:
- A low incidence of local donor-site complications was observed (9 out of 80 patients), including seroma (4), wound infection (3), and abdominal wall hernia (1).
- The overall success rate for rectus abdominis free-muscle transfer was 93%, with six flap losses.
- The deep inferior epigastric pedicle offers good consistency and size for dissection.
Implications:
- The rectus abdominis muscular unit is a frequently used and reliable free-tissue transfer option at the institution.
- Low donor-site morbidity and favorable surgical characteristics support its continued use in reconstructive surgery.
- This technique offers a successful solution for various defects, including those in the lower extremities and head and neck regions.