[Closing soft tissue defects in surgery for open spina bifida]
Thórdís Magnadóttir1, Davide Impieri2, Radek Frič3
1Plastikkirurgisk avdeling, Sykehuset Østfold, Moss.
Background:
Closure of soft tissue defects following surgical repair of neonatal myelomeningocele requires prompt and well-justified decisions regarding the reconstruction method if the defects are to be closed within the first two days of life. For larger defects, flap reconstruction is often necessary. The aim of the study was to examine reconstruction methods for closing soft tissue defects following surgery for myelomeningocele, as well as complications and the need for reoperation.
Material And Method:
Retrospective review of medical records for newborns operated on for myelomeningocele at Oslo University Hospital in the period 2012-2023.
Results:
In 12 of the 18 operated patients, the soft tissue defect was closed directly, while six underwent closure with fasciocutaneous flaps. All defects smaller than 10 cm2 were closed directly. Seven patients experienced complications such as necrosis, infection and/or wound dehiscence, and four required reoperation.
Interpretation:
Fasciocutaneous flaps are an option for closing large soft tissue defects in myelomeningocele. Small defects can be closed directly. Both approaches are associated with a risk of postoperative complications and the need for reoperation.
