Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the chest and the shoulder: wide and deep excisions with immediate reconstruction

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is a rare malignant tumor of the skin. The only satisfactory treatment is surgical and consists of a wide excision. In our department, we have established the limits of the excision required to be a margin of 5 cm on the surface, whereas in the depth, we excise the first healthy anatomical structure encountered. Latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction was used for the major tissue deficit for 15 patients with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the chest and the shoulder. When compared to skin grafting, this technique results in an improved aesthetic appearance and a stable cover for the periosteumless clavicle. Fourteen patients were followed for an average of 37.6 months and all remained free of disease.