The Bone-In-Fillet Flap: A Spare-Parts Approach to Achieving Simultaneous Bony Pelvic Stabilization and Soft Tissue Reconstruction following External Hemipelvectomy

Conclusion

Function and quality of life following EHP remain unacceptably poor. We introduce the Bone-In-Fillet free flap for simultaneous pelvic stabilization and soft tissue reconstruction. Unique to this flap is the incorporation of the tibia for bony fixation between the sacrum and pubic symphysis deep to the fillet flap, creating the Bone-In-Fillet organization. To our knowledge, this is the first report of vascularized tibia in a free fillet flap for pelvic reconstruction. We advocate the Bone-In-Fillet free flap for its application of spare parts techniques, utility in bony and soft tissue reconstruction, and potential to significantly improve patient quality of life and function following external hemipelvectomy.

Devices Used

None.

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