Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans post excision reconstruction options and outcome: 10 years single center experience.

[BACKGROUND] Various aspects of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) management have been explored, including clinical presentation, recommended resection margins, and the role of adjuvant therapy. Multiple reconstruction methods have also been introduced to restore function and aesthetics following DFSP excision.

[METHODS] A retrospective study on reconstruction methods and outcomes for a series of patients with DFSP post-resection was conducted in the Plastic and Reconstructive Unit, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, from 2013 to 2023.

[RESULTS] A total of 7 patients were identified during this retrospective study, which consisted of 3 female and 4 male patients. Six patients with head and neck lesions post-excision with a median margin of 3.5 cm underwent immediate soft tissue reconstruction with a free flap (either the anterolateral thigh or latissimus dorsi), and 1 patient with a lesion over the upper extremities underwent immediate soft tissue reconstruction with a pedicled flap following wide resection of the lesion. Only 1 developed a flap-related complication. The overall functional and cosmetic assessments of the reconstructed part were good. Four patients underwent adjuvant radiation therapy, and none of the patients developed local recurrence during follow-up.

[CONCLUSION] Post-resection soft tissue reconstruction of huge defects with free flaps has shown good functional and aesthetic outcomes.