Gluteal fold flap for pelvic and perineal reconstruction following total pelvic exenteration

BACKGROUND: The rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap has been used as the first choice for pelvic and perineal reconstruction. However, due to previous abdominal surgery and multiple stoma placements in our patients, the rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap could not be used for such reconstruction. Here, we describe the use of bilateral gluteal fold flaps for pelvic and perineal reconstruction following total pelvic exenteration to treat recurrent cervical cancer. METHODS: We performed three bilateral gluteal fold flap operations for perineal reconstruction in three patients between 2008 and 2011. The cause of the perineal defect was total pelvic exenteration, which was performed to treat recurrent cervical cancer in all patients. RESULTS: All flaps completely survived and there were no severe postoperative complication. Good cosmetic results were achieved in all patients. CONCLUSIONS: The gluteal fold flap is a useful option for reconstructing extensive pelvic and perial defect after total pelvic exenteration because of sufficient soft tissue volume, reliable blood supply, cosmetic results and minimal donor-site morbidity.