The Use of Fibula Free Flap for Reconstruction of Anterior Chest Wall Full-Thickness Defects

Abstract

Reconstructions of the sternum remain a formidable challenge for the operating team. Reconstruction of the sternumdefect, regardless of the reason, should ensure the stability of the anterior chest wall, the return of acceptable respiratory parameters and the control of wounds. Stability of the chest wall can be provided by autogenous tissues or prosthetic materials. In our experience, the fibula free osteocutaneous flaps are harvested for reconstruction of the bone defect in two patients after full-thickness defect of the sternum and anterior chest wall.

Delayed post-traumatic presentation of severe sternal osteomyelitis: A strong multidisciplinary effort and a novel reconstruction technique for a challenging case

“…In the absence of pectoralis muscles, the wide defect was covered with the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous pedicled flap, which ensured adequate vascularization and good cosmesis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on autologous iliac crest tricortical bone graft in the treatment of sternal defect for SO, as mainly autologous ribs [9] and fibula [10] have been described in chest wall reconstruction.…”

The Reconstruction of The Anterior Thorax Wall After Sternal Resection Through the Combination of Autologous Fibula Graft and Metal Plate

“…The use of autugraft or allograft bone is a viable solution in order to repair the small defects of thoracic wall. [6] An alternative for the reconstruction of the chest wall skeleton is an autologous bone graft preventing the use of foreign materials. Theoretically, autologous bone tissue is chosen due to lack of biologic tolerance problem.…”

“…Theoretically, autologous bone tissue is chosen due to lack of biologic tolerance problem. [6] The skeletal stability of the chest wall was previously performed through many vascular grafts (autologous and heterologous) and prosthetic materials. [7] Among autologous grafts, avascular bones, such as ribs, tibia, iliac crest and fibula, were used to reconstruct the chest wall.…”

“…[7] Among autologous grafts, avascular bones, such as ribs, tibia, iliac crest and fibula, were used to reconstruct the chest wall. [6] The transfer of free autologous fibula is commonly used in the long bone and mandibular reconstructions. [7] Due to the periosteal blood circulation of the fibula shaft, many sections can be formed in different lengths by osteotomizing.…”