Complicated wound closure following mastectomy and breast reconstruction.

Abstract

Breast reconstruction incidence increased, including preventive surgery. In this context, providing women best surgical care and results is crucial, with minimum complications, such as wound dehiscence and skin flap necrosis. Tension-free closure of skin flaps is mandatory for successful healing. However, since this is not always possible, various techniques have been developed to reduce tension from wound margins, facilitate primary wound closure, and minimize and improve scarring. These techniques have not been investigated in breast surgeries. The aim of this study was to describe our experience with the Tension-Relief System in mastectomy and breast reconstructive patients, and the advantages of using this technique. The retrospective cohort consisted of 13 breasts of 11 women aged 29-74years who underwent surgery with primary wound closure using the System, in 2019-2020 in our department. It was applied averagely 19.7days, demonstrated effectiveness in preventing complications and as secondary treatment following complications. This enabled avoiding further and more extensive surgeries, including donor-site morbidity when needed. In mastectomy and breast reconstruction, the system minimizes complications and yields satisfactory esthetic and functional outcomes, with minimal inconvenience to the patient, and good pain control. The technique is low-cost, simple to use, and does not require special settings, surgical equipment, or particular skills.