[Fillet flap for axillary reconstruction]

Ann Chir Plast Esthet. 2016 Aug;61(4):298-301. doi: 10.1016/j.anplas.2015.06.006. Epub 2015 Jul 17.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Introduction: Among all complications that affect patients with neurofibromatosis, type I (NF1) are very aggressive malignant nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). Surgery is their first line therapy.

Clinical case: We report the case of a non metastatic neurofibrosarcoma of the axillary area in a 22-year-old male with NF1. An interscapulothoracic resection was performed to resect the tumor and had sacrificed the homolateral latissimus dorsi pedicled myocutaneous flap. In this extreme and not codified situation, the coverage of the tissue loss was possible in the same time using a free flap harvested on the amputated limb (fillet flap). The free flap based on the humeral pedicle was composed of the entire skin and muscles of the amputated forearm. It was anastomosed on the subclavian vessels. Only a free flap was suitable in this tissue loss. The use of a fillet flap allows a wide and reliable coverage without donor site morbidity.

Keywords: Fillet flap; Free flap; Lambeau libre; Membre banque; Neurofibroma; Neurofibrome; Neurofibrosarcoma; Neurofibrosarcome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Amputation, Surgical*
  • Axilla / surgery*
  • Free Tissue Flaps*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neurofibrosarcoma / pathology
  • Neurofibrosarcoma / surgery*
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / pathology
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Upper Extremity / surgery*
  • Young Adult