The Influence of Reconstructive Technique on Perioperative Pulmonary and Infectious Outcomes Following Chest Wall Resection

The type of reconstructive material, whether with rigid, flexible, permanent, or biologic characteristics, does not appear to influence perioperative pulmonary or infectious wound complications. Rather, the number of resected ribs and the concomitant lung parenchymal resection predict pulmonary morbidity following chest wall resection. Depending on the circumstances, an effective chest wall reconstruction can be achieved with either rigid or flexible prosthetic material.