Abstract
BackgroundChronological age is an important factor in determining whether a patient is offered reconstruction following breast cancer surgery. Free flap breast reconstruction is considered by many as the gold standard but is seldom offered to older patients, as the risks are considered too high. This study aims to examine the outcomes of free flap breast reconstruction in patients aged 70 and above treated in our unit. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review examining the outcomes of consecutive patients aged 70 and above undergoing autologous free flap breast reconstruction at a single centre between January 2015 and December 2023. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between increasing age and comorbidities, and four primary outcome variables – all complications, readmission, return to theatre, and length of stay. ResultsWe identified 71 patients with a mean age of 72.3 years (70-78). 63.4% had one or more comorbidities, with the most common being hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia. Most patients were ASA grade 1 or 2 (91.5%). The overall complication rate was 36%, the majority of which were minor wound healing complications (22.5%). There were no episodes of flap loss, either partial or complete. The rates of severe complications (14%), readmission (8.4%) and return to theatre (7%) were low and comparable to those previously published for our general patient cohort. There was no relationship between increasing age beyond 70 years and any of the four primary adverse outcome measures. ConclusionsFree flap breast reconstruction in patients aged 70 and above can be very successful and safe and should be considered as an option in all fit, surgically optimised patients, independently of age.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call