The vertical gracilis myocutaneous flap for breast reconstruction in a massive weight loss patient

The number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery is increasing worldwide. Different types of free flaps are often used for breast reconstruction following mastectomy. We present a not previously described case using a vertical myocutaneous gracilis flap for breast reconstruction in a massive weight loss patient. The patient was a 61 year-old woman who previously had a lumpectomy for an in situ ductile carcinoma of her left breast. Subsequently the patient underwent a full mastectomy in 2020 due to a recurrence. The massive weight loss population poses a challenge in reconstructive surgery, due to their higher risk of complications. However, we still believe free flaps should be considered as a valid option for breast reconstruction in these patients. Due to the often increased size of perforator vessels in these patients, other flaps may prove more suitable than the usually preferred ones.

Tạo hình khuyết hổng trong phẫu thuật ung thư âm hộ: báo cáo 2 trường hợp tạo hình phức tạp và tổng quan y văn

Performing radical surgery for locally advanced vulvar cancer is usually associated with the occurrence of large perineal defects. These defects, especially in previously radiated cases, often require more advanced reconstructive techniques using locoregional flaps. We present two cases of vulvar reconstruction, one case using a split and thinned, transversely oriented, pedicled deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap and another one with gracilis myocutaneous flap. These pedicled flap seems to be an effective and feasible method of perineal reconstruction after extended perineal resection for locally advanced vulvar cancers. especially in pre-irradiated patients.

Gracilis Myocutaneous Flap: Adding to the Armamentarium of Complex Sacrococcygeal Defect Reconstruction

Background With increasing radicality of rectal cancer surgeries, the postoperative defects are becoming more complex. This demands an ideal reconstructive option with minimal morbidity to the patient. Although vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap is the commonly used flap, gracilis myocutaneous flap is increasingly being performed to avoid morbidity associated with VRAM flap. Results We share our experience about two of our patients treated for rectal malignancy with pelvic exenteration who were reconstructed immediately with pedicled gracilis myocutaneous flap. Both the patients had an uneventful postoperative recovery period and were discharged on postoperative day 10. During follow-up period both patients had a healthy flap with no evidence of recurrence. No perineal hernias or gross dehiscence of skin closure occurred. Conclusion Gracilis myocutaneous flap has its own place with unique advantages adding to the armamentarium of reconstructive options for complex perineal defects, thereby avoiding the morbidity associated with VRAM flap. It stands as a reliable alternative in patients where VRAM cannot be used.