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Quantification of functional deficits associated with rectus abdominis muscle flaps
A Zauner-Dungl1, K L Resch, E Herczeg
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Vienna Medical School, Austria.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Rectus abdominis muscle flap transfer surgery can lead to trunk flexion deficits, particularly in males. However, these functional impairments are often compensated, supporting the muscle
Area of Science:
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Biomechanics
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Rectus abdominis muscle flap transfer is utilized in reconstructive surgery.
- Potential functional deficits in trunk flexion may arise post-surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate trunk flexion deficits after unilateral rectus abdominis muscle flap transfer.
- To compare functional outcomes between patients and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Compared 27 patients (post-rectus abdominis flap transfer) with 22 healthy controls.
- Assessed abdominal muscle function using Janda's test.
- Measured isometric trunk flexion torque (N.m) at various degrees using TEF Modular Component (Cybex 6000).
Main Results:
- Operated patients exhibited significantly lower relative trunk flexion torque (N.m/kg) compared to controls (p < 0.05).
- Deficits were more pronounced in males than females.
- No significant clinical differences in abdominal muscle power were observed between groups.
Conclusions:
- Trunk flexion deficits post-rectus abdominis flap transfer are generally compensated.
- The rectus abdominis muscle remains a viable option for reconstructive surgery with careful patient selection.