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Specialization:
Trunk & Wall Reconstruction
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Consultant:
Dr. Dipmalya Chatterjee
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Focus Areas:
Complex Wall Defects & Hernias
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Certifications:
Board Certified Reconstructive Surgeon
Comprehensive Chest & Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Chest and abdominal wall reconstruction is a specialized surgical discipline focused on restoring the structural and functional integrity of the trunk following cancer resection, traumatic injuries, complex surgical defects, or congenital abnormalities. These procedures require sophisticated understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy, respiratory mechanics, and abdominal wall dynamics to reconstruct defects while preserving essential functions like breathing, posture, and core stability.
Reconstruction Techniques
Chest Wall Reconstruction
Reconstruction of chest wall defects following tumor resection, radiation damage, or trauma using mesh, bone grafts, or flaps.
Complex Hernia Repair
Reconstruction of abdominal wall defects including incisional, ventral, and parastomal hernias with component separation techniques.
Sternal Reconstruction
Repair of sternal defects following infection (mediastinitis), trauma, or tumor resection using muscle flaps and rigid fixation.
Component Separation
Advancement of abdominal wall muscles to close large defects without tension, often combined with mesh reinforcement.
Post-Tumor Reconstruction
Reconstruction following resection of chest/abdominal wall tumors (sarcomas, desmoids) with clear oncologic margins.
Trauma Reconstruction
Reconstruction of extensive trunk defects from traumatic injuries, burns, or necrotizing infections requiring tissue transfer.
The Reconstruction Process
Successful chest and abdominal wall reconstruction requires multidisciplinary planning with thoracic surgeons, surgical oncologists, and radiologists. Preoperative evaluation includes advanced imaging (CT/MRI), assessment of respiratory function, and nutritional optimization. Surgical planning considers defect size, location, tissue quality, and the need for skeletal support. Reconstruction often involves a combination of synthetic mesh, biologic materials, and autologous tissue transfer to restore both form and function.
Our Multidisciplinary Approach
Collaboration with specialists across surgical disciplines ensures optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.
- Collaborative tumor board planning
- 3D imaging for precise defect analysis
- Customized mesh design and placement
- Vascularized tissue transfer when needed
Recovery & Functional Outcomes
Recovery from chest and abdominal wall reconstruction involves careful monitoring of respiratory function, pain management, and gradual return to activity. Patients typically require hospitalization for 5-10 days with specialized physical therapy to restore core strength and prevent complications. Long-term outcomes focus on restoring respiratory mechanics, abdominal wall function, and quality of life, with attention to preventing recurrence in hernia cases.