Lower extremity salvage after radical resection of malignant tumors in the groin and lower abdominal wall

Abstract

Background: Resection of a large malignant tumor in the groin often leaves a substantial soft-tissue defect that makes wound closure difficult. Nevertheless, palliation and lower extremity salvage is frequently possible if the tumor is widely excised and the wound closed with well-vascularized tissue; however, few data are available on patients undergoing such procedures. Study Design: We retrospectively examined our experience with limb salvage in 25 patients undergoing radical groin resection for metastatic or recurrent malignant tumors between April 1, 1991 and April 8, 1996. Results: Defect size ranged from 15 to 735 cm 2 (mean, 238.5 cm 2). Tumor resection included part of the abdominal wall in 14 patients and the femoral vessels in 5 patients. Defects were most commonly repaired with a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (56%). Mean hospital stay was 10.4 days, and mean followup was 15.5 months. Although the complication rate was 68%, the limb salvage rate was 100%, and normal ambulation was achieved in 88% of patients. The most frequent complications were chronic lymphedema (42%) and seroma (29%). There was one perioperative death (4%). Conclusions: Functional limb salvage after radical resection of the groin and lower abdominal wall is very successful, has an acceptable morbidity rate, does not prolong hospital stay, and contributes significantly to the patient’s quality of life. Chronic lymphedema is a frequent complication after this treatment but can be managed successfully with conservative techniques.