Rhomboid flap: Indications, applications, techniques and results. A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Dermatology
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Cutaneous defects arise from trauma, infection, chronic illness, or surgery.
• Traditional reconstruction methods (primary closure, skin grafting) have limitations.
• These limitations include dehiscence, distortion, poor cosmesis, and incomplete graft acceptance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the English literature on rhomboid flaps.
• To discuss indications, applications, and outcomes of rhomboid flaps.
• To advocate for the rhomboid flap as a preferred reconstructive method.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of rhomboid flaps.
• Analysis of indications, applications, and results.
• Discussion of the flap's design and benefits.

Main Results:

• Rhomboid flaps are easily designed and require no special instruments.
• They offer excellent contour, texture, thickness, and color match.
• High patient satisfaction and good long-term cosmetic outcomes are reported.

Conclusions:

• The rhomboid flap overcomes limitations of traditional reconstruction techniques.
• It is a versatile and effective method for various cutaneous defects.
• The rhomboid flap should be considered the preferred method for skin defect reconstruction.