Vaginal reconstruction using a modified rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap in pelvic cancer surgery

Ann Plast Surg. 2003 Nov;51(5):455-9. doi: 10.1097/01.SAP.0000070647.81355.F7.

Abstract

The authors present a modification of the design for the classic cutaneous pattern of the rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap for vaginal reconstruction after pelvic cancer surgery. The authors designed a paramedial and supraumbilical dermo-cutaneous flap with paraumbilical randomized vascularization, which was sutured to the classic cutaneous TRAM flap pattern and rotated around a longitudinal axis to form the neo-introitus. The use of this new cutaneous design allows for a perfect cylindrical shape all along the length of the new vagina, thus achieving a more anatomic reconstruction than those currently obtained with the classic cutaneous patterns, and with fewer tendencies to distal retraction, necrosis, and partial stenosis.

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Wall
  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Vagina / surgery*