Reply to Comment on, 'Complications and Impact on Quality of Life of Vertical Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flaps for Reconstruction in Pelvic Exenteration Surgery'

摘要

Our publication highlighted the morbidity associated with the use of the vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps for reconstruction after pelvic exenteration in 87 patients.1 We agree that this is an extremely high morbidity cohort compared with most flap reconstruction series, with the smallest reported dehiscence counting as a complication. As we pointed out in this report, our previous work demonstrated that we only flapped the higher-risk pelvic exenteration patients.2 The criteria to choose for vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap reconstruction are the presence of at least 2 of the following 4 clinical risk factors: abdominoperineal resection, need for total exenteration, pelvic radiotherapy, and sacrectomy.2