Therapy of chest wall osteomyelitis

Introduction: Chronic osteomyelitis of the chest wall requires radical debridement and defect coverage with well-perfused tissue. The implantation of synthetic material is still under discussion because of the risk of infection. Methods. A retrospective study was conducted on the complications and functional and aesthetic results of 26 patients with chest wall osteomyelitis after radiation or sternotomy treated by radical debridement and neurovascular pedicled latissimus dorsi muscle. Results: The functional results were excellent with a low complication rate. The muscle showed electric activity synchronous with inspiration and clinically a stabilization of the thoracic defect. Discussion: Maintained muscular activity may play an essential role for stabilizing thoracic defects of up to four ribs or the sternum; implantation of synthetic material is not necessary.