ABSTRACT
Introduction As is true for reconstructive surgery in general, successful repair of chest wall
defects involves a sequence of steps, each of which must be accomplished in order to proceed appropriately and safely to the next step. The precise nature of the defect will dictate the particular reconstructive requirements and options. With respect to function, chest wall defects may require repair o f the skeletal support system in addition to soft tissue coverage in order to restore normal respiratory mechanics.
