Use of the omentum flap for reconstruction of large chest wall defects

Abstract

Introduction: Use of alloplastic material such as Gore-Tex and loco regional flaps for reconstruction of the large defects of chest wall has been well described. The purpose of this article is to present a useful technique of using the pediculated omental flap to cover the large chest wall defects. Material & Methods: Three patients with large thoracic wall defects underwent reconstruction with omental flap with or without prolene mesh. These defects resulted from tumor resection. Their dimensions ranged from 25×30cm to 35×50cm. The omentum was tunneled through a separate opening in the abdominal wall into the subcutaneous plane and used to cover the defect and inner surface of prolene mesh. Results: There was no complication and all wounds healed with no recurrence. The patients were followed for two years and there was no tumor recurrence or wound breakdown. Conclusion: Omental flap is a reasonable alternative for chest wall reconstruction especially when delay wound healing anticipated or when others loco regional flap are not appropriate.