Gracilis Myocutaneous Flap: Adding to the Armamentarium of Complex Sacrococcygeal Defect Reconstruction

Abstract

Background With increasing radicality of rectal cancer surgeries, the postoperative defects are becoming more complex. This demands an ideal reconstructive option with minimal morbidity to the patient. Although vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap is the commonly used flap, gracilis myocutaneous flap is increasingly being performed to avoid morbidity associated with VRAM flap. Results We share our experience about two of our patients treated for rectal malignancy with pelvic exenteration who were reconstructed immediately with pedicled gracilis myocutaneous flap. Both the patients had an uneventful postoperative recovery period and were discharged on postoperative day 10. During follow-up period both patients had a healthy flap with no evidence of recurrence. No perineal hernias or gross dehiscence of skin closure occurred. Conclusion Gracilis myocutaneous flap has its own place with unique advantages adding to the armamentarium of reconstructive options for complex perineal defects, thereby avoiding the morbidity associated with VRAM flap. It stands as a reliable alternative in patients where VRAM cannot be used.

Keywords

• complex sacrococcygeal defect
• rectal cancer
• gracilis myocutaneous flap