Vertical Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous-Pedicled Island Flap for Covering Defect of the Suprapubic Area: A Case Report

Abstract

Immediate reconstruction of defects in the lower abdomen is challenging. We present a successful reconstruction case using a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap for a radiation ulcer on the suprapubic area following radiation therapy for recurred malignant melanoma. Before flap elevation, we conducted sufficient debridement until pliable healthy tissue was revealed. Afterwards, a 15×9 cm VRAM flap was elevated. We then inserted the flap through a suprafascial tunnel. At 6 months postoperatively, a completely healed aesthetic flap was achieved. This case is meaningful in that it involves a successful reconstruction of a sizable abdominal wall defect of the suprapubic area with unhealthy and unviable adjacent tissue following repeated surgery and chemoradiotherapy.