Radiation and Wound Healing: Challenges Faced in Reconstructing Irradiated Leg Wound

Abstract

Radiation therapy being one of the modalities in oncological therapy regimes uses ionizing radiation for controlling tumours through DNA altercation of cancerous tissue resulting in cellular death. Despite recent advances that resulted in a reduced dosage, radiation-related side effects cannot be avoided completely. Surgery in an irradiated area is technically demanding due to altered tissue physiology and unpredictable wound healing. Reconstructive surgeons face the challenge of delayed wound healing following previous radiotherapy. Reconstructive interventions are required to repair irradiated wounds to have a good quality of life for oncology patients.