One-Stage Hybrid Breast Reconstruction with Inflatable Saline Implants: Minimizing the Need for Major Revision Surgery

Abstract

Autologous breast reconstruction is an appealing choice for breast cancer undergoing mastectomy. Evaluating for adequate donor tissue volume is a highly subjective process with potentials for miscommunication. It is not uncommon for patients to desire significant augmentation of their autologous breast reconstruction with delayed insertion of an implant. However, flap elevation in the pre-pectoral plane can be treacherous. Our novel technique combines autologous abdominal free flaps with immediate pre-pectoral adjustable saline implants to provide a customizable, single-stage strategy. A retrospective review of patients undergoing breast reconstruction with abdominal free tissue transfer and either immediate placement of adjustable saline implants or delayed placement of implants for augmentation was performed. Patient characteristics, operative details and complications were recorded. Complications, patient satisfaction and ability to achieve goal breast size was compared between the immediate adjustable saline implant group and delayed implant placement group. Twenty-four patients (41 breasts) were identified and met inclusion criteria. Sixteen patients received implants in a delayed manner (28 breasts), while 8 received adjustable saline implants immediately with flap reconstruction (13 breasts). High patient satisfaction with breast size and shape was noted across both cohorts. Nearly all patients across both cohorts believed that it was beneficial to be able to adjust breast volumes post-reconstruction. Immediate saline implant placement was demonstrated to increased odds of patient-reported satisfaction by multivariable analysis. A single-stage hybrid approach breast reconstruction with a pre-pectoral adjustable saline implant and abdominal free flap is feasible. This novel technique reduces the rate of major revision surgery and optimizes patient satisfaction in autologous breast reconstruction.