Summary
Background
Larger thoracic defects require stable yet flexible reconstruction to prevent flail
chest and debilitating respiratory impairment. We present the use of locking rib-spanning
plates as a chest salvage procedure.
Methods
A 30-year-old male presented with a massive desmoid tumor in the posterolateral aspect
of the chest wall. The mass measured 22 by 14 by 6 cm and involved the posterior third
through seventh ribs. The patient underwent wide excision and reconstruction in layers
with a porcine dermal substitute for the pleura, locking rib-spanning plates for structural
support, and coverage with ipsilateral latissimus dorsi.
Results
The patient tolerated the procedure without complication. He was extubated on postoperative
day zero and has had an uneventful course.
Conclusion
Chest wall reconstruction with rib-spanning plates is an alternative method of reconstruction
for large chest wall defects. This method limits the foreign body burden while providing
rigid structural support. This technique also makes chest wall reconstruction possible
in situations that might previously have been treated with pneumonectomy.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: June 18, 2012
Accepted:
April 26,
2012
Received:
March 4,
2012
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
