Intrathoracic free flaps

The utility of pedicled muscle flaps transposed into the thoracic cavity to reconstruct complex intrathoracic defects has been well documented. However, in some patients, local chest-wall muscles have already been either sacrificed or transected by previous thoracotomies and are not available for reconstruction. In these patients, we have successfully employed microvascular techniques to transfer distant muscle flaps into the thoracic cavity. Seven patients with complex intrathoracic defects were reconstructed with three latissimus dorsi, one omental, and three rectus abdominis free flaps. In each case, the microvascular anastomosis was extrathoracic, with the flap transposed into the thoracic cavity. Each of the flaps was revascularized successfully. Four of the five bronchopleural fistulas were sealed, with the remaining patient continuing to demonstrate a reduced but persistent air leak. No infections were encountered, and each flap transfer resulted in a healed wound. When local muscle flaps are not available to reconstruct complex intrathoracic wounds, microvascular transfer of distant muscle flaps can provide abundant well-vascularized tissue for reconstruction of any portion of the thoracic cavity. Versatility is afforded in flap selection and recipient vessel site location, making this technique an important option in the treatment of these difficult wounds.