Three cases of full thickness chest wall resection and reconstruction for a solitary sternal metastasis of breast carcinoma

Abstract

We have experienced three cases of a solitary sternal metastasis of breast carcinoma. In all three cases, full thickness chest wall resection and reconstruction were performed. Marlex mesh and titanium plate were used to stabilize the thorax, and a pedicled or free flap was used to close the myocutaneus defect. Chest wall reconstruction using a titanium plate combined with Marlex mesh achieved excellent stability of chest wall movement. Free myocutaneous flap of rectus abdominis muscle was more useful than pedicled flap to close the soft part defect.