Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans post excision reconstruction options and outcome: 10 years single center experience

Area of Science:

• Dermatologic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) management involves clinical presentation, resection margins, and adjuvant therapy.
• Reconstruction methods aim to restore function and aesthetics post-DFSP excision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate reconstruction methods and outcomes for patients with DFSP post-resection.
• To assess functional and cosmetic results of soft tissue reconstruction for large defects.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study conducted from 2013 to 2023.
• Analysis of 7 patients with DFSP undergoing wide resection.
• Focus on immediate soft tissue reconstruction using free flaps (anterolateral thigh, latissimus dorsi) or pedicled flaps.

Main Results:

• Six patients with head and neck DFSP underwent free flap reconstruction with a median 3.5 cm margin.
• One patient with upper extremity DFSP received pedicled flap reconstruction.
• Good functional and cosmetic outcomes were observed, with only one flap-related complication and no local recurrence.

Conclusions:

• Free flap soft tissue reconstruction is effective for large post-DFSP defects.
• The method yields favorable functional and aesthetic results.
• Adjuvant radiation therapy was used in some cases, with no local recurrence observed.