Quadriceps keystone island flap for radical inguinal lymphadenectomy: A reliable locoregional island flap for large groin defects

Abstract

Background: Radical inguinal lymphadenectomy (RIL) for bulky metastatic melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers of the inguinal region, while shown to improve morbidity and survival oncologically, can result in substantial morbidity from wound complications. Skin defects cannot be closed primarily and the substantial dead space predisposes to seroma, wound dehiscence and infection. Despite the clear need for reconstructive options, extended series describing reconstruction of large inguinal defects in this setting have not been reported. Methods: A prospectively entered, retrospectively reviewed study of 20 consecutive patients undergoing quadriceps keystone island flaps (QKIF) for the closur..