Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction Research Articles

Cost-benefit analysis of 3D-printed vascular models in abdominal free flap breast reconstruction

3D-printed vascular models can enhance flap harvesting efficiency in abdominal free flap breast reconstruction, reducing the use of operating room time. However, no economic analyses with respect to model usein this context have been conducted to date. As such, this study examines model cost-benefit tradeoffs for use in abdominal free flap breast reconstruction.

Effects of Marijuana Use in Patients Undergoing Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction.

Marijuana use has been associated with vascular inflammation and clotting, resulting in endothelial damage and arteritis. As marijuana use rises in the United States, few studies have evaluated its impact on surgical outcomes and wound healing in free flap breast reconstruction. A retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing abdominal free flap breast reconstruction between 2016 and 2022 at a large metropolitan healthcare system was performed. Patient demographics, comorbidities, procedural details, and complications were analyzed. Minor complications were defined as skin or fat necrosis not requiring intervention, nipple loss, any wound requiring management in the clinic, hematoma, and seroma. Major complications were defined as reoperation, flap loss, cardiac or thromboembolic events, and hospital readmission. Active marijuana users were those with marijuana use within 12 weeks of surgery. In total, 168 patients underwent 276 deep inferior epigastric artery-based flaps for breast reconstruction. There were 21 active marijuana users. There were no significant differences in patient demographics, cancer treatment, or minor and major complications. However, there were higher rates of active nicotine use (P = 0.001) and anxiety/depression amongst active marijuana users (P = 0.002). Active users had higher rates of bilateral breast reconstruction (P = 0.029), but no significant differences in other operative details. Active marijuana use of unknown frequency may be safe in patients undergoing breast free flap reconstruction. Advising marijuana abstinence preoperatively may not alter patient outcomes. Further studies of greater sample size are needed to evaluate marijuana's impact on outcomes associated with breast reconstruction using free flap.

The Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Blocks in Abdominal Tissue Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

The Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Blocks in Abdominal Tissue Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

A comparison of presentations and outcomes of salvage versus non-salvage abdominal free flap breast reconstructions-Results of a 15-year tertiary referral centre review.

Salvage breast reconstruction with autologous tissue is becoming more prevalent due to a resurgence in implant-based procedures. The latter has caused a commensurate rise in failed or treatment-resistant prosthetic cases requiring conversion to free tissue transfers. Salvage reconstruction is often considered more challenging, owing to patient presentation, prior treatments and intraoperative difficulties. The aim of the study was to test this hypothesis by comparing outcomes of salvage versus non-salvage autologous microsurgical breast reconstructions in a retrospective matched cohort study. The demographics, risk factors, operative details and outcomes of patients who underwent free flap salvage of implant-based reconstructions by a single operator (2005-2019) were retrospectively evaluated. For each salvage reconstruction, the consecutive non-salvage abdominal free flap reconstruction was selected for comparison. The clinical outcomes including intraoperative blood loss, operative time, flap survival and complication rates were compared. Of 442 microsurgical patients, 35 (8.0%) had salvage reconstruction comprising 41 flap transfers (29 unilateral, 6 bilateral) and 42 flaps (28 unilateral, 7 bilateral) in nonsalvage reconstruction. Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps comprised the commonest autologous tissue used in both groups at 74% and 71% respectively. Most patients (83%) underwent salvage reconstruction for severe capsular contractures. There was a significant difference in radiation exposure between groups (salvage reconstruction 89%, non-salvage reconstruction 26%; p<0.00001). All 83 flaps were successful with similar reoperation rates and intraoperative blood losses. Unilateral salvage reconstruction took on average two hours longer than non-salvage reconstruction (p = 0.008). Overall complication rates were similar (p>0.05). This 15-year study shows that despite salvage autologous free flap breast reconstruction requiring longer operation times, its intra and postoperative outcomes are generally comparable to non-salvage cases. Therefore, salvage breast reconstruction with free flaps provides a reliable option for failed or suboptimal implant-based reconstructions.

Radiographic evidence of neo-vascularization of the lower abdominal soft tissues in patients after abdominoplasty and previous abdominal free flap breast reconstruction

Radiographic evidence of neo-vascularization of the lower abdominal soft tissues in patients after abdominoplasty and previous abdominal free flap breast reconstruction

SP22. Satisfaction with Breasts among Patients Undergoing Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction: Identification of Factors in 919 Patients

SP22. Satisfaction with Breasts among Patients Undergoing Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction: Identification of Factors in 919 Patients

SP10. Factors Associated with BREAST-Q Physical Well-being of the Chest and Abdomen following Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

SP10. Factors Associated with BREAST-Q Physical Well-being of the Chest and Abdomen following Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

PC43. Satisfaction with Breasts among Patients Undergoing Abdominal Free Flap Breast Reconstruction: Identification of Factors in 919 Patients

PURPOSE: Previous studies suggest that patients who choose autologous breast reconstruction have significantly higher satisfaction with their breasts than those with implant-based reconstruction. Of all donor sites, abdominal-based reconstruction has become the gold standard. This study aimed to present factors associated with Satisfaction with Breasts among patients who underwent abdominal free flap breast reconstruction. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of women with abdominal-based breast reconstruction between 2010 and 2021. Patients who completed the BREAST-Q Satisfaction with Breasts module and underwent either transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM), deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP), or superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) were included. RESULTS: Overall, 919 women who underwent abdominal-based breast reconstruction completed the BREAST-Q at 1-year follow-up. The median score improved from 46 (interquartile range, 33 to 58) preoperatively to 64.0 (53 to 78) at 1-year postoperatively. Factors significantly associated with decreased postoperative Satisfaction with Breasts score included lower preoperative scores (beta=0.12, p=0.012), Black (beta=-4.7, p=0.031) or Other ethnicity (beta=-13, p<0.001, versus White), and history of psychiatric (beta=-5.4, p<0.001) and cardiovascular disease (beta=-4.0, p=0.010). Patients who had radiation reported significantly decreased score compared to those who did not (beta=-6.5, p<0.05). Variables including BMI, timing of reconstruction (immediate versus delayed), laterality, and complications were not associated with the 1-year postoperative score. CONCLUSION: Factors that influence long-term Satisfaction with Breasts following autologous breast reconstruction include lower preoperative score, Black or Other race, a history of psychiatric or cardiovascular disorders, and radiation. Understanding these factors is imperative in managing expectations and preoperative counseling.

Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomographic Reverse Lymphatic Mapping for Groin Vascularized Lymph Node Transplant Planning.

Superficial inguinal (groin) vascularized lymph node transplantation is the most common option for the treatment of lymphedema, particularly in combination with free abdominal flap breast reconstruction. This study examines the utility of single-photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT/CT) lymphoscintigraphy for lower extremity reverse lymphatic mapping in presurgical planning for groin vascularized lymph node transplantation and appraises the physiologic lymphatic drainage to the superficial inguinal lymph nodes. All patients who underwent bilateral lower extremity SPECT/CT reverse lymphatic mapping over a 5-year period were included. Retrospective case note analysis was performed to collect demographic, surgical, and outcomes data. The study included 84 patients; 56 of these subsequently underwent groin vascularized lymph node transplantation (58 flaps). Fifty-four of these flaps were combined with free abdominal flaps for breast reconstruction (55 flaps). Using SPECT/CT reverse lymphatic mapping investigation of 168 inguinal regions, drainage to at least one superficial inguinal region was visualized in 38.1 percent of patients; in 13.1 percent, drainage was visualized to both superficial inguinal regions. Using this information for presurgical planning, groin vascularized lymph node flap harvest was performed from the contralateral side in 57 of 58 cases (98.3 percent) using intraoperative gamma probe guidance, and no patient developed donor lower extremity lymphedema during follow-up (mean ± SD, 34.5 ± 15.4 months). The authors' use of presurgical SPECT/CT reverse lymphatic mapping together with limited flap dissection and intraoperative gamma probe guidance resulted in no clinical cases of iatrogenic donor lower extremity lymphedema. The high incidence of drainage from the lower extremity to the superficial inguinal region mandates the use of reverse lymphatic mapping when performing groin vascularized lymph node transplantation. Therapeutic, IV.

Prevention and management of post-deep inferior epigastric perforator flap abdominal bulge: A 5-year single-surgeon series

Abdominal bulge in the absence of a hernia is a known complication following free abdominal flap breast reconstruction and can be associated with significant aesthetic and functional morbidity. This study aims to review the impact of permanent subrectus mesh placement on the incidence of post-DIEP bulge. All patients over a 5-year period who underwent unilateral or bilateral DIEP breast reconstruction were included in the study. The cohort was divided into a "permanent mesh" (PM) and "no permanent mesh" (NPM) groups. Those in the PM group underwent placement of a permanent Bard™ Soft Polypropylene Mesh, and the NPM group comprised of patients who had a semi-permanent subrectus VyproⓇ mesh or no mesh. The primary outcome of the study was the development of post-DIEP abdominal bulge or hernia. The secondary outcome was the incidence of other donor site complications such as infection. Post-operative follow-up was conducted for a minimum of 6 months. The study included 276 patients, 134 of whom were in the NPM group and 142 in the PM group. Demographics including mean age, median BMI, incidence of pre-operative chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and prior abdominal surgery were comparable between the two groups. The incidence of post-operative abdominal bulge or hernia was lower in the PM group (PM= 0.7% vs. NPM=5.2%, p<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of donor site infection between the two groups (PM=3.5 vs. NPM=2.2%, p=0.53). Our study demonstrates that a low rate of abdominal morbidity can be achieved with the placement of a permanent subrectus mesh.

A multicentre study of the relationship between abdominal flap and mastectomy weights in immediate unilateral free flap breast reconstruction and the effect of adjuvant radiotherapy

Abdominal free flaps are considered the gold standard for post-mastectomy autologous breast reconstruction. A key element of outcome assessment is breast symmetry often achieved by approximating the reconstructed breast dimensions such as weight (wt) to those of the mastectomy. However, the ideal relationship between these two entities remains unclear. 525 immediate unilateral abdominal free flap breast reconstruction (FFBR) patients were enrolled in a multicentre study (UK 141; Italy 384) and subdivided into Group A (flap wt < mastectomy wt, n=163), Group B (flap wt > mastectomy wt, n=260) and Group C (flap wt = mastectomy wt, n=102). Their rates of contralateral balancing and ipsilateral revision surgeries were compared using Chi-Square tests. Radiotherapy influence on these adjustment procedures was also assessed. More contralateral balancing procedures (17%) were performed than ipsilateral revisions (10%). Group A rates of contralateral balancing procedures were three times higher than Group B's with a ratio of 37 to 1 versus Group C (37% vs 11% vs 1% respectively, p<0.001). Similarly, the ipsilateral breast revision surgery rate in Group A was double that of Group B and almost three times that of Group C (17% vs 8% vs 6% respectively, p=0.01). Adjuvant radiotherapy disproportionately increased ipsilateral revisions versus contralateral balancing surgeries (p=0.028). A flap-to-mastectomy weight ratio of less than 1 (Group A) significantly increases subsequent adjustments on both contralateral and reconstructed breasts whilst irradiation predisposes to ipsilateral revisions. This is important in patient counselling and intraoperative flap contouring. Flap weight should ideally approximate or exceed mastectomy weight in unilateral FFBR.

Abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness as a substitute for BMI in predicting complications in abdominally-based autologous breast reconstruction.

Patient selection for autologous tissue transfer for postmastectomy breast reconstruction often utilizes body mass index (BMI) to risk stratify patients, though it only estimates fat content and does not address fat distribution. This study aims to identify a measurement of abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness (ASFT) from preoperative computed tomography (CT) angiography imaging to better predict complications. A retrospective review of patients who underwent an abdominal microvascular free flap breast reconstruction was performed. The average of the bilateral distances from the lateral border of the rectus abdominus to the most proximal point of the dermis at the L4-L5 space was measured on preoperative imaging to estimate ASFT. This measurement was compared to BMI in regards to correlation with any complication, major or minor complications, and donor or recipient site complications. Statistical analysis utilized point-biserial correlations and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Three hundred and nine cases comprising a total of 496 breast reconstructions were identified. BMI did not correlate with any of the grouped complications, while ASFT correlated with occurrence of any complication (p = .003), minor complications (p = .001), and recipient site complications (p = .001). Further analysis revealed ASFT is specifically correlated with fat necrosis (p = .005). In independent multivariable regression models, both BMI (p = .011) and ASFT (p = .001) were significant predictors of fat necrosis. The ASFT model had a BIC of 335.42 compared to the BMI model with a value of 340.89, with smaller numbers representing more predictive models. Estimation of ASFT is easily performed and is a significantly better predictor of flap fat necrosis than BMI.

Laterality and Patient-Reported Outcomes following Autologous Breast Reconstruction with Free Abdominal Tissue: An 8-Year Examination of BREAST-Q Data.

Despite the rise in rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, few studies have used patient-reported outcomes to assess satisfaction between unilateral and bilateral breast reconstruction with autologous tissue. The purpose of this study was to investigate patient satisfaction and quality of life following autologous reconstruction to determine whether differences exist between unilateral and bilateral reconstructions to better guide clinical decision-making. The current study examined prospectively collected BREAST-Q results following abdominal free flap breast reconstruction procedures performed at a tertiary academic medical center from 2009 to 2017. The reconstruction module of the BREAST-Q was used to assess outcomes between laterality groups (unilateral versus bilateral) at 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and more than 3 years. Overall, 405 patients who underwent autologous breast reconstruction completed the BREAST-Q. Cross-sectional analysis at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years revealed similar satisfaction scores between groups; however, bilateral reconstruction patients demonstrated higher satisfaction scores at more than 3 years (p = 0.04). Bilateral reconstruction patients reported lower scores of abdominal well-being at 1 year, 2 years, and more than 3 years (p = 0.01, p = 0.03, and p = 0.01, respectively). These results suggest that satisfaction with breasts does not differ with the laterality of the autologous reconstruction up to 3 years postoperatively but may diverge thereafter. Bilateral reconstruction patients, however, have lower satisfaction with the abdominal donor site. These data can be used in preoperative counseling, informed consent, and expectations management in patients considering contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.

Letter to the editor: applications of rib sparing technique in internal mammary vessels exposure of abdominal free flap breast reconstructions: a 12-year single-center experience of 215 cases.

We read with great interest the article by Zhang and colleagues on the applications of rib sparing technique in internal mammary vessel (IMV) exposure for microvascular breast reconstruction (1). They report a retrospective single institutional study of 215 women who underwent 218 abdominal free flap breast reconstructions, 70 of them using rib-preserving exposure of the IMVs. They compared these with 102 flaps in which the costal cartilage was sacrificed. Their findings that rib sparing IMV exposure is a safe technique with a shorter surgery and hospital stay as well as lower complication rate compared to rib-sacrifice are consistent with our results from a study of the pertinent anatomy of the IMVs during total rib-sparing free flap breast reconstruction (2). Our comments are based on a prospectively collected database of such reconstructions performed by a single surgeon (CMM) using the total rib preservation technique of IMV exposure (3,4).

Application of Three-Dimensional Printed Vascular Modeling as a Perioperative Guide to Perforator Mapping and Pedicle Dissection during Abdominal Flap Harvest for Breast Reconstruction.

Advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing have enabled production of patient-specific guides to aid perforator mapping and pedicle dissection during abdominal flap harvest. We present our early experience using this tool to navigate deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) topography and evaluate its impact on operative efficiency and clinical outcomes. Between January 2013 and December 2018, a total of 50 women underwent computed tomographic angiography (CTA)-guided perforator mapping prior to abdominal flap breast reconstruction, with (n = 9) and without (n = 41) 3D-printed vascular modeling (3DVM). Models were assessed for their accuracy in identifying perforator location and source-vessel anatomy, as determined by operative findings from 18 hemi-abdomens. The margin of error (MOE) for perforator localization using 3DVM was calculated and compared with CTA-derived measurements for the same patients. Flap harvest times, outcomes, and complications for patients who were preoperatively mapped using 3DVM versus CTA alone were analyzed. Overall, complete concordance was observed between 3DVM and operative findings with regards to perforator number, source-vessel origin, and DIEA branching pattern. By comparison, CTA interpretation of these parameters inaccurately identified branching pattern and perforator source-vessel origin in 28 and 33% of hemi-abdomens, respectively (p = 0.045 and p = 0.02). Compared with operative measurements, the average MOE for perforator localization using 3DVM was significantly lower than that obtained from CTA alone (0.81 vs. 8.71 mm, p < 0.0001). Reference of 3D-printed models, intraoperatively, was associated with a mean reduction in flap harvest time by 21 minutes (60.7 vs. 81.7 minutes, p < 0.001). Although not statistically significant, rates of perforator-level injury, microvascular insufficiency, and fat necrosis were lower among patients mapped using 3DVM. The results of this study support the accuracy of 3DVM for identifying DIEA topography and perforator location. Application of this technology may translate to enhanced operative efficiency and fewer perfusion-related complications for patients undergoing abdominal free flap breast reconstruction.

Applications of rib sparing technique in internal mammary vessels exposure of abdominal free flap breast reconstructions: a 12-year single-center experience of 215 cases.

Internal mammary vessels (IMVs) are widely used recipient vessels in abdominal free flap breast reconstructions. Rib sparing technique is an alternative method with less damage in IMVs exposure. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the selection of IMVs, as well as analyze the applicability and related factors of rib sparing technique in abdominal breast reconstruction. Medical records of 215 patients who underwent abdominal free flap reconstruction from November 2006 to December 2017 in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center (FUSCC) were analyzed. Intercostal space (ICS) was measured from preoperative chest computed tomography scan. Factors influencing the choice of recipient vessels and rib sparing were analyzed. Surgery time, hospitalization and complications were assessed. Among all 218 flaps, 172 flaps used IMVs as the recipient vessels while 46 used other vessels. patients with immediate reconstruction (P=0.005) and axillary lymph nodes dissection (ALND) (P<0.001) were less likely to use IMVs. Patients' body mass index (BMI) and radiotherapy history showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups (P=0.338 and 0.811). In IMVs group, 62% cases used rib sparing technique. Compared with rib resection group, patients with rib sparing were taller (P=0.047) and with a wider ICS (2.65±0.54 vs. 2.25±0.38 cm, P<0.001). Rib sparing group had a shorter surgery and postoperative hospitalization time, as well as a lower complication rate, but the differences were not statistically significant (P=0.120, 0.450 and 0.612). IMVs were used more frequently as the recipient vessels in abdominal free flap breast reconstructions, especially when axillary operation was not performed at the same time. Rib sparing technique had the potential to decrease surgery time, hospitalization days and complications rate. It could be applied in most of the patients with IMVs exposure, particularly in taller patients and patients with a wider ICS. Preoperative chest computed tomography scan can be used to assess the ICS width to provide operational suggestions.

Divulge the bulge: an international survey of abdominal donor site morbidity in free autologous breast reconstruction

The frequency of donor-site complications following abdominal free-flap breast reconstruction remains controversial. Consensus on strategies to minimize morbidity is underdeveloped.An online survey was distributed to surgeons practicing free-flap breast reconstruction worldwide. Contact information was obtained via (1) official website listings/directories of US Plastic Surgery residencies/fellowships and (2) first/last authors of PubMed-indexed publications relating to free autologous breast reconstruction over the past decade. Questions related to practice environment, surgical volume/preferences, complications, mesh-use, referrals and perceptions of interventions for decreasing abdominal complications. Statistics were performed using non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis H test.The response rate was 26% (140/537). The majority of respondents came from the United States (100, 71%), and reported an academic practice environment (120, 86%). Fifty-six percent reported bulge rates ≥3% and sixteen percent reported bulge rates ≥10%. Most (93%) reported 0–2% hernia incidence. Those performing fewer surgeries were more likely to use mesh (p=.034) and report higher bulge incidence (p=.002). US surgeons performed a lower fraction of deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps (p<.001) and were more likely to believe that mesh use lowered complication risk (p<.001). Bulge and hernia incidence were associated with an increased proportion of non-DIEPs performed and mesh use (p=.004 and p=.024). Most respondents (54%) ‘never’ or ‘rarely’ had patients see occupations/physical therapy postoperatively.Bulge and abdominal muscle weakness are under-recognized donor site complications following free-flap breast reconstruction. Low surgical volume, non-DIEP reconstruction and mesh use may be associated with higher complication rates. Current practice patterns to reduce morbidity vary widely both domestically and internationally.

Abstract P5-16-08: Applications of rib sparing technique in internal mammary vessels exposure of abdominal free flap breast reconstructions

Abstract Background: Internal mammary vessels (IMVs) are widely used recipient vessels in abdominal free flaps breast reconstructions. Exposure of IMVs usually needs to resect a segment of costal cartilage or rib during the operations. The rib sparing technique is an alternative method with less damage. This study aims to analysis the applicability and advantages of rib sparing technique of IMVs exposure in breast reconstruction. Methods: medical records of 215 patients who underwent abdominal free flap reconstruction from November 2006 to December 2017 were analyzed. The factors influencing the choice of vessels and rib sparing were analyzed. The outcomes of rib sparing were assessed. Intercostal space (ICS) width and other related data were measured by the preoperative thin slice chest computed tomography (CT) scan images. Results: Among all 215 patients with 218 flaps, 172 flaps used IMVs as the recipient vessels while 13 used thoracodorsalvessels and 33 used subscapular vessels. The proportion of IMVs as recipient vessels showed a rising trend in general and remained over 90% for the last three years in our center. Patients with immediate reconstruction (p=0.005) and axillary lymph nodes dissection(ALND) (p&amp;lt;0.001) were less likely to use IMVs, both in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients' BMI and radiotherapy history showed no statistically significant differences between the IMVs group and the other vessels group (p=0.338 and 0.811). The rib sparing rate in IMVs exposure increased yearly and exceeded 40% in 2013, now it maintained more than 60% during the recent 3 years. Additionally, among the patients who received rib sparing IMVs exposure in 2017, the mean ICS width was relatively smaller than that in 2013 (2.54cm V.S 2.93cm, p=0.124). Compared with rib resection group, patients with rib sparing were higher (163.57 ± 4.44 cm vs. 161.83 ± 4.30 cm, p=0.047) and with a wider ICS (2.65 ± 0.54 cm vs. 2.25± 0.38 cm, p&amp;lt;0.01), while the depth from the surface of the pectoralis major muscle to the IMVs and distance between the parasternal line and IMVs had no difference between the two groups. Rib sparing group has a shorter surgery and hospitalization time, as well as a lower severe complication rate, but the differences were not statistically significant (p= 0.120, 0.450 and 0.296). Conclusion: IMVs were used more frequently as the recipient vessels in abdominal free flap breast reconstructions, especially when axillary operation was not carried out at the same time. Rib sparing technique had the potential to decrease surgery time and hospitalization days, as well as the severe complications rate. It could be used in most of patients received free flap reconstruction when IMVs were used, particularly in higher patients and patients with a wider ICS. Preoperative slice chest CT scan can be used to measure the ICS width to provide suggestions for dealing with the ribs. Citation Format: Zhang Q, Xiao Q, Guo R, Wu J, Gu Y, Xiu B. Applications of rib sparing technique in internal mammary vessels exposure of abdominal free flap breast reconstructions [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-16-08.

Management of Microsurgical Patients using Intraoperative Unfractionated Heparin and Thromboelastography.

Maintaining optimal coagulation is vital for successful microvascular tissue transfer. The viscoelastic thromboelastography (TEG) is a modern and dynamic method to assess a patient's coagulation status. The aim of this study was to evaluate its diagnostic capabilities of identifying microvascular complications. A retrospective chart review was conducted for the most recent 100 cases of abdominal free flap breast reconstruction of a single surgeon. Patient demographics, medical history, clinical, and operative details were documented. Thrombocyte counts, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and various TEG parameters were gathered for preoperative, intraoperative, and two postoperative time points. A total of hundred patients were identified, who underwent 172 abdominal-based free flaps for breast reconstruction. TEG was more dynamic compared with PT or aPTT and demonstrated borderline hypocoagulate values intraoperatively upon unfractionated heparin administration and hypercoagulate values postoperatively. In contrast, PT and aPTT demonstrated a continuously hypocoagulable state. Complications included five thrombotic events and three hematomas. The thrombotic cases had much steeper increases of TEG-G between surgery and postoperative day 2 (p = 0.049), while PT and aPTT failed to identify these patients. Of those, two resulted in flap loss (1.2%) that both occurred in patients with abdominal scars from previous surgery. The TEG is a useful adjunct for monitoring coagulation status in microsurgical breast reconstruction. When thrombosis at the anastomosis occurs, TEG correlates with a more rapid rebound from an intraoperative hypocoagulable state to a postoperative hypercoagulable state, when using the TEG. The TEG is a valuable tool for a more dynamic assessment of the patients' changing coagulation status.

Objective assessment of flap volume changes and aesthetic results after adjuvant radiation therapy in patients undergoing immediate autologous breast reconstruction.

BackgroundThe use of immediate breast reconstruction and adjuvant radiation therapy is increasing in breast cancer patients. This study aimed to analyze the aesthetic outcome and changes in flap volume in patients with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy of the surgical site after immediate autologous tissue reconstruction.MethodsImmediate abdominal free flap breast reconstruction following unilateral mastectomy was performed in 42 patients; 21 patients received adjuvant radiation (study group) and 21 patients did not (control group). To compare flap volume, three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) was performed before and after radiation. Also, aesthetic analysis was performed in both groups to evaluate shape changes.ResultsThere was a 12.3% flap volume reduction after the completion of radiation in the experimental group that was significantly greater than the 2.6% volume reduction observed in the non-radiation group (P<0.01). There was no significant difference in the short- and long-term aesthetic results between the groups.ConclusionsWhen performing immediate autologous breast reconstruction, 14% volume overcorrection is recommended for patients in whom adjuvant radiation therapy is anticipated to improve aesthetic outcomes.