Soft Tissue Reconstruction and Flap Considerations for Chest Wall Defects.

The goal of soft-tissue reconstruction of the chest wall is to provide durable and functional solutions over a dynamic thoracic cavity while protecting vital organs and neurovascular structures. Successful reconstruction is dependent on thorough preparation of a wound bed and well-vascularized tissue coverage. For many defects, pedicled and free flaps provide robust coverage when local tissues are scarce. This article outlines soft tissue and flap considerations for various defects and wound etiologies on the chest wall.