Title : Expanding the scope of rhomboid flap: Trunk reconstruction of large cutaneous defect. A case report and comprehensive review of literature
Abstract:
Surgical resection remains the mainstay treatment for large cutaneous malignancies. However, this technique often results in an extremely large skin defect. Skin grafting is often considered a first-line option for reconstruction, but it can result in poor cosmetic outcomes and less-than-total graft acceptance. To overcome these limitations, various skin flaps and tissue rearrangement techniques have been developed. This case study presents the use of a rhomboid flap for the reconstruction of an extremely large skin defect after a trunk Squamous Cell Cancer resection with wide margins. A 20 x 20 cm sized trunk skin defect was successfully reconstructed with a rhomboid flap. There were no wound complications despite postoperative radiation therapy. At one-year follow-up, the flap was completely healed with excellent contour, texture, thickness, color match, and complete patient satisfaction. Historically rhomboid flaps have been used for small defects of the face and body. This case is a unique example of the versatility and success of rhomboid flap reconstruction of an extremely large defect, instead of a more complicated reconstructive option such as free tissue transfer. The rhomboid flap was quickly and easily fashioned, did not require any special instruments and resulted in long-term good cosmetic outcome. The following article also presents the most comprehensive review of rhomboid flaps in the literature.