Thoracoplasty with marlex mesh following total resection of sternum: a case of chondrosarcoma of sternum.

Removal of the whole sternum for malignant tumor results in a large defect, causing a severe deformity and possible paradoxial movement of the chest wall. Many of thoracoplasty cases after total sternectomy require considerably complicated invasion. Recently, we performed on a patient with chondrosarcoma of the sternum total resection of the sternum including bilateral costal cartilage followed by thoracic reconstruction with polyethylene hard mesh (heavy Marlex mesh). In the present paper, we make a report of the case of thoracoplasty reliable to perform which has produced immediate chest wall stability without postoperative thoracic deformation. Postoperative CT confirmed that the mesh is well infiltrated with fibrous granulation tissue which connected chest muscle. Impairment of respiratory function after the operation is not observed.