Combination of radiotherapy and flap reconstruction for cancer treatments (Review)

Abstract

. Flaps are commonly used to repair large tissue defects caused by tumor resection and are often combined with radiotherapy. Relevant explanations for the mechanism underlying the effect of radiotherapy on flaps and the selection of the sequence of flaps and radiotherapy plan have emerged. The combination of flap and radiotherapy is most widely used in breast, head and neck cancers, while free flaps are the most widely used. Although, reduction of the incidence of complica‑ tions of flap reconstruction, prevention of flap reconstruction failure and best integration of flap reconstruction with radia‑ tion therapy remains controversial. In the present review, these questions and debates were addressed by reviewing the literature on radiotherapy and flap reconstruction in cancer treatment. Contents