Huge Chest Wall Tumour Resection and Reconstruction using Titanium Mesh.

Area of Science:

• Thoracic surgery
• Surgical oncology
• Respiratory mechanics

Background:

• Malignant chest wall tumors are rare and aggressive.
• Extensive resection is necessary to prevent recurrence.
• Resection can lead to chest wall defects and impaired respiratory function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a surgical approach for radical resection of chest wall tumors.
• To evaluate the use of titanium mesh and TRAM flaps for defect reconstruction.
• To assess the impact on respiratory mechanics.

Main Methods:

• Radical tumor resection.
• Chest wall defect reconstruction using titanium mesh.
• Coverage with a Tranverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneus (TRAM) flap.
• Assessment of respiratory function post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Titanium mesh use led to complications like infection and tissue injury, necessitating removal.
• Despite mesh removal, 'pseudopleura' formation restored thoracic cavity integrity.
• Normal respiratory functions were maintained post-operatively.

Conclusions:

• Titanium mesh and TRAM flap reconstruction is a viable option for chest wall defects.
• Pseudopleura formation is crucial for maintaining respiratory mechanics after mesh removal.
• This approach can successfully manage malignant chest wall tumors while preserving respiratory function.