Abstract
▪Rigid chest wall support may be achieved with mesh, acellular dermal matrix, or autogenous material such as tensor fascia lata (TFL). Of these, alloplastic mesh is most prone to infection.▪Soft tissue coverage can be achieved with local muscle flaps.▪Proper treatment of mediastinitis includes debridement, rigid sternal fixation when possible, and soft tissue coverage.▪Pectoralis muscle is the workhorse for sternal and anterior chest wall defects.▪Latissimus muscle is known for its bulk and ability to reach intrathoracic defects. Caution is advised for patients with previous thoracotomy incisions, as it may have been divided.▪Serratus muscle supplies less bulk than the latissimus but will function to cover lateral chest wall defects and some intrathoracic needs.▪Rectus abdominus is an excellent choice for sternal and anterior chest wall defects, especially the lower two-thirds. Furthermore, it can be used to fill space within the mediastinum.▪The omentum can reach almost any chest wall defect. Its greatest advantage is its pedicle length, which can be extended by dividing the arcades. It does, however, require a laparotomy for harvest.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
