Pelvic Ring Reconstruction with an Osteocutaneous Fibula Flap for Abdominal Wall Repair in Adults with Bladder Exstrophy

Abstract

Abstract Abdominal wall repair in adults with bladder exstrophy is challenging. We present a case of a 46-year-old woman with bladder exstrophy presenting with a large midline incisional hernia associated with a 13-cm hypoplasia of both pubic rami that precluded fixation of any abdominal mesh. A two-stage approach was adopted. First, a free vascularized osteocutaneous fibula flap was used to reconstruct the pelvic ring. After complete bone union 18 months later, a mesh was anchored to the fibula flap to restore the abdominal wall competence. After 2 years of follow-up, no hernia recurrence was observed, and the patient reported improved quality of life and self-esteem. This novel technique may provide long-term stability and good functional outcomes for reconstruction of the abdominal wall in selected adults with bladder exstrophy.