Materials and techniques in chest wall reconstruction: a review

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Extensive chest wall resection for neoplastic pathology presents significant surgical challenges.
• Full-thickness chest wall defects often result, requiring complex reconstruction.
• High surgical morbidity is associated with these procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review indications, materials, and techniques for chest wall reconstruction.
• To achieve optimal chest wall rigidity and soft tissue coverage.
• To minimize thoracic deformity and preserve pulmonary mechanics.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of synthetic, biologic, and composite meshes for skeletal reconstruction.
• Evaluation of titanium plates and allografts for thoracic cage rigidity.
• Analysis of soft tissue coverage techniques including flaps and grafts.

Main Results:

• Successful chest wall reconstruction restores rigidity and protects intrathoracic organs.
• Various materials (meshes, plates, allografts) aid skeletal reconstruction.
• Flaps and grafts provide essential soft tissue coverage.

Conclusions:

• Chest wall reconstruction demands a multidisciplinary approach involving thoracic surgeons, plastic surgeons, and oncologists.
• Restoring skeletal integrity and achieving adequate soft tissue coverage are paramount.
• The choice of materials and techniques depends on defect size and patient factors.