Reconstruction of the Abdominal Wall after Oncologic Resection: Defect Classification and Management Strategies

Compared with conventional ventral hernia repair, there are several additional considerations germane to the oncologic abdominal wall reconstruction, including the management of radiation soft-tissue injury, the management of bacterial contamination, and the location and extent of the defect. Herein, we review some of the unique challenges associated with oncologic abdominal wall reconstruction and introduce a new classification schema to assist the reconstructive surgeon in performing these complex cases.