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J Reconstr Microsurg 1997; 13(4): 277-284
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1000236
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1997 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Coverage of Knee-Tumor-Resection Prostheses with Free Flaps

Cemal Şenyuva, Akin Yücel, Yağmur Aydin, Önder Aydingöz, Murat Hiz, Zeki Güzel
  • Departments of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Orthopedic Surgery, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Turkey
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Publication History

Accepted for publication 1996

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Free latissimus dorsi free flaps were used for the treatment of three patients with malignant tumors localized at the distal end of the femur. In all cases, a knee prosthesis was used after tumor resection. In two patients, the prosthesis was covered with a free latissimus dorsi flap immediately after insertion. In one patient, the exposed prosthesis that was inserted 9 months previously was also covered with a free latissimus dorsi flap. Histopathologic diagnosis of the tumors was osteosarcoma in two cases and fusiform cell sarcoma in one case. Free-tissue transfers were successful in spite of preoperative chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Chemotherapy was started 3 weeks postoperatively in all cases. Patients ambulated 6 weeks after surgery and knee functions were satisfactory during a 1 year follow-up.

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