A new oncoplastic technique for removal of centrally located malignant tumors and reconstruction by a local dermo-glandular flap in conservative breast surgery.

Abstract

To evaluate the local dermo-glandular flap as a new reconstructive oncoplastic technique after removal of central malignant tumors of the breast, in terms of patient satisfaction and local recurrence. This study included 60 females with centrally located breast cancer who underwent central quadrantectomy and local dermo-glandular flap with either sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary clearance. The mean age of the patients was 49.68 ± 8.52 years. The duration of the operation ranged from 68-105 minutes, with a mean of 79.77 ± 9.41 minutes. Local recurrence was observed in three patients (5.00%) with no distant metastasis. Forty-seven patients (78.33%) reported satisfaction after the operation. Ugly scarring and the existence of tissue defects were the main factors affecting patient satisfaction. Correction of these complications increased overall satisfaction to 88.33%. For small- and medium-sized breasts, the use of a local dermo-glandular flap for the management of centrally located malignant tumors seems to be a simple and easy technique with good oncological outcomes and acceptable few minor complications. This technique offers an immediate reconstruction of a new areola with fewer scars that will be hidden later after areola tattooing. Most of the patients reported satisfaction three months after areola reconstruction.