Pedicle or free musculocutaneous flaps for shoulder defects after oncological resection

Management of soft-tissue defects of the shoulder is described. Extensive defects of soft tissues with or without overlying skin were created after resection of sarcomas in five patients. Reconstruction was performed using musculocutaneous flaps, which included three pedicle latissimus dorsi and two free tensor fascia lata flaps. Simultaneous functioning replacement of the defects of the trapezius and deltoid muscles were each achieved in two patients. Primary wound healing was achieved, and each patient recovered good contour of the shoulder. Functional results were satisfactory in all patients with an average score of 93.4% (range, 83%-100%) using the system of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society. The four functioning muscles recovered active contraction in the transferred position. The shoulder elevation was normal in three patients, and was 90degrees and 30degrees in one patient each. All patients remained disease-free at the time of latest follow-up. Thus, shoulder defects of the soft tissues can be managed appropriately with the two representative musculocutaneous flaps.