Subcutaneous calcification in the pectoralis major flap: a late complication of radiotherapy

Br J Radiol. 2011 Nov;84(1007):e221-3. doi: 10.1259/bjr/29175509.

Abstract

Heterotopic calcification following radiotherapy is a very rare event. Here, we report a case of a patient who underwent surgical intervention including pectoralis major flap reconstruction for locally advanced pharyngolaryngeal squamous cell carcinoma with skin invasion. He was followed up post-operatively with adjuvant radiotherapy. 13 years after the treatment, suspect resistance in the myocutaneous flap region appeared and was diagnosed as a calcification. To date, the occurrence of subcutaneous calcification in the myocutaneous flap in the neck has not been described as a late complication of neck irradiation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Calcinosis / etiology*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / radiotherapy*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / pathology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Pectoralis Muscles / pathology*
  • Pectoralis Muscles / radiation effects*
  • Pectoralis Muscles / transplantation
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant / adverse effects
  • Skin Neoplasms / secondary
  • Surgical Flaps / adverse effects
  • Surgical Flaps / pathology*