The prevention and repair of large abdominal-wall defects by muscle transposition: a preliminary communication.

Abdominal-wall defects, whether occurring as perioperative or postoperative phenomena, have been variously managed. Where the defect cannot be repaired by the use of the patient's own tissues, synthetic material is commonly utilized. Where both the preceding are unsuccessful, closure by means of muscles transferred from the thigh should be considered. Muscles have distinct advantages over fascial grafts or synthetic materials: they are dynamic structures that are effective in controlling herniae, may relieve symptoms in the case of symptomatic scoliosis resulting from the muscle loss, and may improve bowel action by improving expulsive abdominal efforts. Preliminary experience with for patients is presented, together with details of the operative technique. Since this report was submitted, a fifth patient suffering from a congenital "prune belly" syndrome has been treated.