Groin And Thigh Reconstructions With Pedicled Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flaps

Abstract

Background/aim: Resection of tumors from the groin and thigh regions with safe margins often results in significant soft tissue defects, which preclude primary closure. This study presents a series of rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps for irradiated thigh and groin wounds with the purpose of evaluating the efficacy and outcomes of these flaps in this population. Materials and methods: From 2008 to 2015, all patients who underwent resection of thigh or groin region tumors and reconstruction with an inferiorly based rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap were retrospectively identified. Medical records of the patients were reviewed. Results: A total of 27 patients, aged 20-67 years, were operated on for defects in the groin and upper thigh region. Nine patients underwent immediate reconstruction. The remaining 18 patients underwent late reconstruction. There was neither total flap loss nor partial flap loss. We chose to utilize 15 ipsilateral and 12 contralateral pedicles. The mean length of stay in hospital was 13.7 days. Conclusion: A rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap can be successfully used in patients with groin and upper thigh defects due to its predictable and robust vascular supply, bulky muscle content, wide arc of rotation, and large skin island.