Oncological Reconstruction of the Anterior Chest Wall in a Resource-limited Setting

Abstract

In low-resource settings, chest wall reconstruction following oncological resection presents unique challenges such as advanced or recurrent disease at presentation, limited diagnostic and technical resources, and a lack of trained reconstructive surgeons. The case presented here demonstrates these challenges alongside successful multidisciplinary management of an oncological chest wall defect in such a situation. Importantly, before being evaluated by a team including a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, the patient had experienced a 9-year history of malignant disease and had already undergone 1 unsuccessful resection, which was followed by tumor recurrence within a year. This case represents only one of many that highlight the critical role plastic surgeons play in oncological care, especially in low-resource settings, and the importance of investing in local surgical infrastructure, particularly in training reconstructive surgeons who will practice in regions with the greatest need.