Use of a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap for one-stage reconstruction of the thoracic wall after en bloc resection of primary rib chondrosarcoma in five dogs.

Objective: To describe a thoracic wall reconstructive technique using a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap after en bloc resection of primary rib chondrosarcoma and report outcome in 5 dogs.

Study Design: Retrospective study.

Animals: Dogs (n=5) with primary rib chondrosarcoma.

Methods: Medical records (2003-2005) were reviewed for signalment, staging investigations, surgical findings, complications, and outcomes. Owners and veterinary surgeons were contacted for outcome information.

Results: A latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap provided an air-tight thoracic wall closure after chondrosarcoma resection. Paradoxical respiratory movement of the flap occurred; however, from physical examination and blood gas analysis (2 dogs), ventilation was adequate. All flaps survived, 1 had superficial skin necrosis distally and 2 had minor wound dehiscence. One dog without tumor-free margins died of tumor-related disease 56 days after surgery. Tumor recurrence did not occur in 4 dogs with tumor-free margins. One dog was euthanatized 10 months after surgery for unrelated disease; 3 dogs were alive at writing (median follow-up: 20 months; range, 18-27 months) and all had a satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcome.

Conclusions: Reconstruction of ventral thoracic wall defects using a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap yields a functional, cosmetic outcome.

Clinical Relevance: A latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap can be used as a successful 1-stage reconstructive technique for ventral thoracic wall defects.