Lateral Chest Wall Defects: Reconstructive Strategies

Abstract

The management of chest wall (CW) resection and reconstruction still remains an arduous challenge for thoracic and plastic surgeons. In this setting, lateral CW defects (along with the anterior ones) represent the most challenging issue for the majority of surgeons due to the high rate of post-operative complications and significant functional impairments in patients undergoing such procedures. In general, small lateral defects usually need only autologous flap closures, while the larger or full-thickness ones must first be repaired with alloplastic materials. New promising materials and related innovative techniques for CW restoration are now increasingly reported in literature, enabling to expand reconstructive options for surgeons. In this article, we provide an overview of the basic principles and techniques for lateral CW resection and review the reconstructive strategies, focusing also on new procedures and materials.