Trans-Retroperitoneal Omental Flap for Reconstruction of a Large Thoraco-Dorsal Defect, Following Oncological...

This work presents the case of a 76-year old patient, with a large ulcerated thoraco-dorsal tumor, which was excised by a mixed surgical team (plastic and general surgery), and the resulted defect was closed by an omental flap, which was trans-peritoneal transposed and covered by split-thickness skin grafts. The surgical intervention steps and the postoperatory evolution are exposed. The surgical procedure selection and the therapeutic alternatives are also discussed, according to data from literature. In conclusion, the omental flap can represent a useful and viable alternative for the surgical cure of large postexcisional chest wall defects, which ensures soft, pliable and immunologically competent tissue. A multidisciplinary approach (plastic and general surgery, intensive care) and a meticulous surgical technique are essential for the successful accomplishment of the reconstruction with omental flap.