With the objective of analyzing the use Rectus abdominis muscle flaps for repair of large diaphagmatic defects, when direct suture is impossible, six dogs underwent surgery. The Rectus ahdominis muscle was dissected up to its insertion and was introduced into the abdominal cavity through a paracostal incision. A defect of 4 x l0cm was created in the diaphragmatic muscle and the flap was sutured to the edges of the defect with horizontal mattres suture with 2-0 silk. Animais were clinically evaluated every day at the post-operative period. Biopsies and macroscopic observation were done at the 15th, 30th and 60th day. Connective tissue and hemorrhagic areas among the flap and the diaphragm, and granulation tissue with median maturity were observed in the biopsy material at the 15th day. At the 30th day, few granulation tissue among the muscles were observed. At the 60th day, there was mature granulation tissue. Adherence ocurred in the region of the implant with the liver, caudal pulmonar lobe, stomach and omentun. The Rectus abdominis muscle can be used to correct defects in the diaphragm with a complete tissue integration in the implanted region.
dog; diaphragm; graft; muscle
