BACKGROUND: The plastic surgeon frequently performs reconstructions of diverse types of cutaneous defects; thus, it is essential to be versatile and have knowledge of appropriate techniques for each case. The rhomboid transposition flap, proposed by Alexander Limberg, is an extremely useful flap for a wide range of reconstructive procedures. This study aims to demonstrate the versatility, safety, and applicability of Limberg's flap for reconstruction of cutaneous losses located in a wide variety of body segments. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 50 patients with different cutaneous defects that had been reconstructed with the rhomboid flap was performed. A description of the surgical technique and a critical analysis of the results are presented. RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 59.6 years. Neoplastic lesions accounted for most of the cases (84%). The face was the most frequently affected area, accounting for 36 (72%) cases; it was followed by the lumbosacral region (8%) and by the dorsal and inguinoscrotal regions (6%). Complications were observed in 4 (8%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: The rhomboid flap provides safe and predictable outcomes, and is the method of choice for most of the defects found.
Surgical flaps; Reconstructive surgical procedures; Surgery, plastic
