Reconstruction of a Right Scapular Defect Using a Trapezius Flap After Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Case Report

Reconstruction of complex traumatic chest wall defects, particularly those complicated by necrotizing fasciitis (NF), requires a meticulous and individualized surgical approach. This case report describes the successful management of a 46-year-old male patient with post-traumatic NF involving the scapular region. After multiple surgical debridements and negative pressure wound therapy, definitive reconstruction was achieved using a chimeric trapezius muscle flap, providing both defect coverage and functional restoration. This case highlights the utility of the trapezius flap in managing challenging chest wall defects, particularly when alternative flap options are limited, and underscores the critical role of a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of severe soft tissue infections.

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Publication Details

Journal
Cureus
Published
2025-11-13
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.96791
Primary Topic
Surgical site infection prevention
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Reconstruction of a Right Scapular Defect Using a Trapezius Flap After Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Case Report

Villavicencio Ruiz, Javier Fonseca, Andres Felipe Cotrino Herrera, José Francisco Robles López et al.
Cureus
Surgical site infection prevention
article

Reconstruction of a Right Scapular Defect Using a Trapezius Flap After Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Case Report

Villavicencio Ruiz, Javier Fonseca, Andres Felipe Cotrino Herrera, José Francisco Robles López, Diego Fernando Arango Ardila
article en

Abstract

Reconstruction of complex traumatic chest wall defects, particularly those complicated by necrotizing fasciitis (NF), requires a meticulous and individualized surgical approach. This case report describes the successful management of a 46-year-old male patient with post-traumatic NF involving the scapular region. After multiple surgical debridements and negative pressure wound therapy, definitive reconstruction was achieved using a chimeric trapezius muscle flap, providing both defect coverage and functional restoration. This case highlights the utility of the trapezius flap in managing challenging chest wall defects, particularly when alternative flap options are limited, and underscores the critical role of a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of severe soft tissue infections.

CureusVol. 17(11)
Universidad Autónoma de Occidente (MX), Kennedy Memorial Hospital (US)
Openalex Percentile: Top 47%
Surgical site infection prevention
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