Deep Inferior Epigastric Vessels Research Articles

Free Vascularized Scapula tip Flap to L5—S1 Vertebral Defect After Chronic Infection Related to Interbody Fusion Cage: A Case Report

ABSTRACTSeptic nonunion after vertebral fusion can lead to significant patient disability. The management of septic nonunions usually involves surgical debridement, bone fixation, and antibiotic therapy. Particularly challenging is lumbosacral vertebral nonunions, which necessitate a difficult surgical approach. We present a novel approach using a scapula tip free flap through an intra‐abdominal approach to reconstruct a L5–S1 vertebral defect after a septic nonunion. Our patient, 31‐year‐old man, with no medical conditions, had a fusion of L5–S1 due to severe lower back pain secondary to isthmic spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. Despite multiple attempts of surgical fusion, postoperatively the patient developed a septic nonunion. Following a modified DAIR, the nonunion was reconstructed with a scapula tip bone flap 4 × 3 × 2 cm. The subscapular vessels were anastomosed to the deep inferior epigastric vessels after an intra‐abdominal inset. The patient was discharged at 15 days postoperatively without any complications. At 1‐year follow‐up the patient is pain‐free, off opiate analgesia with radiological evidence of fusion between the scapula tip, L5 and the S1 vertebral body. This case report describes the use, for the first time, of a free scapula tip, to a lumbosacral spinal defect. The use of the free scapula tip flap may be considered for reconstruction of osseous spinal defects due to its long pedicle and the unique bone shape.

A systematic review of 3D printing in autologous breast reconstruction

Aim: The use of three-dimensionally printed (3DP), patient-specific models in autologous breast reconstruction is gaining popularity, namely for their benefits in surgical planning and ability to aid in aesthetic outcomes. Furthermore, 3DP patient-specific models serve as a safe alternative to intraoperative surgical training and act as a useful tool for visualizing the intramuscular course of deep inferior epigastric perforator vessels. Despite demonstrated usefulness in other surgical specialties and areas of plastic surgery, there remains a significant gap in the literature exploring specific perioperative, preoperative, and intraoperative uses as well as the educational advantages of 3DP in autologous breast reconstruction. Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for all English language articles using specific MeSH terms (3dp OR 3D-print* OR three dimension* print*) AND (breast reconstruction). Only studies discussing the use of 3DP for surgical planning or as an educational tool in autologous breast reconstruction were included. Studies using 3DP as interventions or implants were excluded. Results: A total of 168 articles were identified, 13 of which were selected for inclusion. Risk of bias was low for 8 articles and moderate for 5 articles. Seven (53.8%) articles discussed 3DP usage in preoperative planning. Most papers (12, 92.3%) focused on 3DP models as guides for intraoperative identification of anatomical landmarks and 3DP molds as tools to achieve desired breast volume, shape, and projection. Only 4 (30.7%) articles discussed patient outcomes. Of the 4 (30.7%) articles that discussed education, only one of these properly assessed trainees and faculty using pre- and post-intervention surveys. Conclusion: The majority of 3DP research as an intraoperative guide and educational tool is concentrated outside of autologous breast reconstruction. Studies that do discuss this have found significantly higher success rates in dissecting true DIEP flaps when 3DP vascular modeling is used and can result in improved confidence and competence in surgical training for microsurgical anastomosis. Although 3DP has been shown to aid microsurgeons in preoperative planning, most research concentrates on the aid of this novel technology in dynamic, intraoperative decision making. Existing research has identified five 3DP breast molds, but studies have yet to compare these molds in a controlled setting to assess for superiority in feasibility and outcomes. There is little investigation into the usefulness of 3DP as an educational tool, and more research should be conducted as this methodology expands to cover more forms of autologous breast reconstruction.

Analysis of Vascular Anatomy in Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap

Abstract Objectives The deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap is considered the gold standard in autologous breast reconstruction. One of the existing challenges of the procedure is maintaining a pedicle of suitable length and diameter for flap survival. In this study, we analyzed the vascular anatomy of bi-pedicle DIEP flap cases in terms of the vessel diameter, the rate of secondary venae comitantes, and pedicle length to determine the efficacy of microvascular anastomosis and venous drainage. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 108 patients who underwent immediate breast reconstruction using free bi-pedicle DIEP flaps between 2012 and 2019. The patient characteristics, diameters of the deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) and accompanying veins (DIEVs), DIEA pedicle length, vessel re-anastomosis rate, flap failure rate, and fat necrosis were recorded. Results Comparison of the right side and left side diameters and pedicle lengths obtained showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). A total of 148 sides (68.52%) of flaps had double venous drainage, whereas 68 sides (31.48%) of flaps had one. Vein congestion occurred in 5 cases, and all involved with just one DIEV anastomosis. No arterial occlusions were observed. Conclusions This is an analysis of extensive clinical data in terms of DIEA, DIEV, and pedicle length. The low vein congestion rate observed reveals adequate venous drainage was achieved in the DIEV system for DIEP reconstruction. Adequate deep inferior epigastric vessel pedicle length and vessel size, as well as greater than 60% of flaps with secondary DIEV, may allow comfortable microsurgery with reduced complications.

A novel pedicle extension for lumbar artery perforator flaps: a case report

In this case, the authors describe the novel use of anterolateral thigh vessels as an alternative pedicle extension graft to the deep inferior epigastric vessels in autologous breast reconstruction.

Subtotal Thigh Flap for Large Abdominal Wall Defect Reconstruction in Patient With Recurrent Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Harvesting an adequate-sized flap is challenging for reconstructing large defects on the abdominal wall. A subtotal thigh flap would be one of the choices as it provides a well-vascularized large flap with muscle components. Moreover, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a low-grade dermal neoplasm with a high recurrence rate. There is still no consensus on the extent of resection to prevent a recurrence. We present a case of a patient who underwent the reconstruction of a large abdominal wall defect with a subtotal thigh flap after the resection of recurrent DFSP. A 59-year-old man killed from a recurrent huge mass in the lower abdomen with an invasion of the small intestine. His baseline characteristics and records of operations, medications, and outcomes were reviewed. After tumor excision, a 28 × 30-cm subtotal thigh flap was harvested from his left thigh to reconstruct the abdominal defect. A microvascular anastomosis with left deep inferior epigastric vessels was made eventually. The flap was in good condition, and the donor site was covered with a split-thickness skin graft. Subtotal thigh flap may be considered for large abdominal wall defect reconstruction as it allows good perfusion of relatively large skin paddles compared with other free flaps. Also, patients with DFSP need definite margin-free resection and close follow-up to prevent a recurrence.

Deep inferior epigastric vessels for free scapular flap phalloplasty

We aimed to present our 20-year experience of using the deep inferior epigastric vessels as recipient vessels for free scapular flaps phalloplasty and evaluate the outcomes. Penile reconstruction was performed using a free scapular flap between 2000 and 2020 by the same surgical team. Deep inferior epigastric vessels were used in all the cases. The surgical techniques and outcomes were described. Overall, 73 patients used the deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) as the recipient artery. Regarding the recipient veins, 2 veins were anastomosed in 72 (98.6%) patients, 1 deep inferior epigastric vein (DIEV) was used in 1 patient, 2 DIEV in 14, 1 DIEV + superficial inferior epigastric vein (SIEV) in 13, 1 DIEV + superficial circumflex iliac vein (SCIV) in 38, great saphenous vein (GSV) + SCIV in 4, and GSV + SIEV in 3. The mean age and body mass index of the study cohort was 28 years and 24.3 kg/m2, respectively. The shortest follow-up time was 7 months. Eleven patients had flap-related complications. Three patients were readmitted to the operating room within 24 hours, and 2 of them underwent salvage procedures with venous revision. Two patients lost the entire flap. One patient with 3-cm distal portion necrosis required surgical intervention. Three patients experienced urethral necrosis. DIEA is a suitable receptor artery for inflow. The DIEV, SIEV, and SCIV are available options for venous drainage according to the patient anatomical characteristics. The GSV can be an excellent backup for outflow and salvage procedures.

Genitourinary vascularized composite allotransplantation for gender affirmation in trans men: An anatomical feasibility study

Gender affirmation in trans men requires multiple staged procedures. The final masculinizing step involves phalloplasty or metoidioplasty and further incorporation of penile and testicular prostheses. However, these are functionally suboptimal and associated with high complication rates. Therefore, we sought to investigate the anatomical feasibility of one-stage genitourinary vascularized composite allotransplantation (GUVCA) for such gender-affirming surgeries. Twenty fresh cadaveric dissections were performed to delineate the neurovascular anatomy of the proposed GUVCA. Specifically, in donors (n=14), besides the penis and scrotum, the GUVCA included an inferior bladder patch with the urinary sphincter, prostate, seminal vesicles, as well as a strip of the pubic bone. In trans men recipients, osteotomies of the pubic bone to match that of the donor GUVCA were required. Five cadaveric GUVCA transplants were then performed to simulate one-stage gender affirmation surgery. The GUVCA required (1) vascular anastomoses between the recipient's deep inferior epigastric, external pudendal, and superficial circumflex iliac (or superficial inferior epigastric) vessels to the donor's internal pudendal, external pudendal and genitofemoral vessels respectively; (2) neurosynthesis between the recipient pudendal and dorsal clitoral nerves to the donor pudendal and genitofemoral nerves; and (3) urinary bladder anastomosis at the bladder neck, upstream of the urinary sphincter. Average donor measurements (length (cm), diameter (mm)) were: external pudendal artery (2.5, 2.0) and vein (2.0, 3.5), internal pudendal artery (15.0, 4.0), pudendal (15.0, 3.0) and genitofemoral nerves (8.0, 2.0). We have described the anatomical basis for a one-stage GUVCA in trans masculine genitourinary reconstruction.

An Algorithm in Managing Deep Inferior Epigastric Vessel Interruption in Free Flap Breast Reconstruction.

A study was performed across two centers, during a 10-year period between January 1, 2010 and December 2019. Patient and outcome data were collected from the patient file and operation notes. Four cases with clear evidence of DIE pedicle interruption were found, with an average age of 54 years and an average body mass index of 28.9. Three patients had a preoperative diagnosis of DIE pedicle interruption on CT angiography, whereas in one case this was found peroperatively. For three cases, unilateral reconstruction was performed, and for one, bilateral reconstruction. Four flaps (in three cases) were unipedicled; the contralateral DIE pedicle was used in three, and the superficial system was used in one. For the bipedicled case, two hemiflaps were used, with the interrupted DIE pedicle anastomosed to a branch of the contralateral DIE pedicle. Interrupted DIE vessels remain a challenge for free flap breast reconstruction. The four cases demonstrated in this article highlight different surgical strategies, with an emphasis on detailed preoperative planning, including CT angiography. We present an algorithm to aid the reader in approaching cases with an interrupted DIE pedicle.

Role of intercostal neurovascular perforator in lower abdominal flap

To investigate if intercostal neurovascular perforator can nourish lower abdominal flap. Between June 2017 and December 2020, in 39 female patients with predominant perforator originated from intercostal nerve nutrient vessels, main trunk of the deep inferior epigastric vessels was chosen to be the pedicle to harvest free lower abdominal flap for breast reconstruction. The age of the patients ranged from 28 to 52 years, with an average of 38.6 years. There were 16 cases on the left and 23 cases on the right. The duration of breast cancer was 3-32 months, with an average of 21.8 months. Pathological stage was stageⅡin 31 cases and stage Ⅲ in 8 cases. Among them, 25 cases were primary tumor resection and one stage breast reconstruction and 14 cases were delayed breast reconstruction. The lower abdominal flap pedicled with one side pedicle was harvested in 32 cases, all of which were supplied by the main trunk of the deep inferior epigastric vessel combined with the intercostal neurovascular perforator; 7 cases were harvested with bilateral pedicled lower abdominal flaps, of which 4 cases were supplied by the main trunk of the deep inferior epigastric vessel combined with intercostal neurovascular perforator on one side and deep inferior epigastric artery perforator on the other side, and the other 3 cases were supplied by bilateral main trunk of the deep inferior epigastric vessel and the intercostal neurovascular perforator. In the flaps nourished with the main trunk of the deep inferior epigastric vessel combined with the intercostal neurovascular perforator, the intercostal neurovascular perforators were one branch type in 15 cases, one branch+reticular type in 19 sides, and reticular type in 8 sides. The size of flap ranged from 26 cm×10 cm to 31 cm×13 cm; the thickness was 2.5-5.5 cm (mean, 2.9 cm); the vascular pedicle length was 7.0-11.5 cm (mean, 9.2 cm); the weight of the flap was 350-420 g (mean, 390 g). All the flaps survived completely and the incisions at donor sites healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 14-35 months (mean, 25.4 months). The shape, texture, and elasticity of reconstructed breasts were good and no flap contracture happened. Only linear scar left at the donor site, the function of abdomen was not affected. No local recurrence happened. When the direct perforator of the deep inferior epigastric artery may not provide reliable blood supply for the lower abdominal flap, the intercostal neurovascular perforator with deep inferior epigastric vessels can ensure the blood supply of the free lower abdominal flap.

Intramuscular Deep Inferior Epigastric Vessels Are Insulated by Perimysial Fibroadipose Tissue Network.

The difficulty of elevating a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap largely depends on the intramuscular course of the vessel and the perforator. Previous studies, however, have lacked histologic descriptions of the vessels and surrounding structures. The present study analyzed the histologic aspects of the deep inferior epigastric vessels and perforators, focusing on their perivascular relationships with muscle fibers. The abdomen of a cadaver was histologically evaluated to identify intramuscular deep inferior epigastric vessels. Tissue samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and with Masson trichrome stain to visualize fibrous components. Twenty-one DIEPs from 12 patients were also evaluated to determine the histologic aspects of the perivascular structure. In the cross-section of each perforator and adjacent tissue, the perforator-to-muscle distance and trichrome-stained area were measured, and the correlation of the perforator size with the perforator-to-muscle distance and the percent collagenous portion of the distance were determined. Histologic analysis showed that the deep inferior epigastric vessels and perforators were encased by perimysial connective tissue and were not in direct contact with the muscle fibers. The smaller perimysia branched out from the larger perimysia, forming an interconnecting network structure. Correlation analysis showed that larger vessels had more collagenous portions in the perimysial structures (Spearman's ρ = 0.537, p = 0.012). The deep inferior epigastric vessels and perforators reside in a perimysial fibroadipose tissue network. This may provide surgeons with a microscopic perspective during DIEP dissections. Having an idea of the perforator anatomy in microscopic level can help us to perform safer perforator dissections.

Utilité du pédicule épigastrique inférieur profond pour le branchement microchirurgical de lambeau libre pour la couverture de la racine de la cuisse controlatéral

Thigh loss cover after carcinologic resection of sarcomas can be complex and compromise the vascular tree of the lower limb. We report a case of a patient with recurrent sarcoma of the right thigh. After multiple resections, the femur and hip joint are exposed. The superficial and deep femoral vessels are taken in the excisional piece. The reconstruction is performed by a free musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap, anastomosed to the deep inferior controlateral epigastric vessels. The deep inferior epigastric vessels are of sufficient length to join the contralateral hemiabdomen after dissection with a gauge allowing microsurgical anastomoses. They can serve as recipient vessels for a flap covering the contralateral thigh.

PD31-09 USE OF THE DEEP INFERIOR EPIGASTRIC VESSELS FOR ARTERIOVENOUS ANASTOMOSIS IN FREE-FLAP PHALLO-URETHROPLASTY: TECHNIQUE, KEY POINTS, AND LESSONS LEARNED

You have accessJournal of UrologyTrauma/Reconstruction/Diversion: External Genitalia Reconstruction and Urotrauma (including transgender surgery) II (PD31)1 Sep 2021PD31-09 USE OF THE DEEP INFERIOR EPIGASTRIC VESSELS FOR ARTERIOVENOUS ANASTOMOSIS IN FREE-FLAP PHALLO-URETHROPLASTY: TECHNIQUE, KEY POINTS, AND LESSONS LEARNED Nance Yuan, Edward Ray, and Maurice Garcia Nance YuanNance Yuan More articles by this author , Edward RayEdward Ray More articles by this author , and Maurice GarciaMaurice Garcia More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002032.09AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Most descriptions of free-flap phalloplasty use the femoral artery and great saphenous vein as recipient vessels. This generally requires end-to-side arterial anastomosis and sometimes interposed vein grafts. Use of the deep inferior epigastric vessels (DIEA/V) as recipient vessels has been rarely reported. We present our technique and experience with using the DIEA/V as recipient vessels for free-flap phalloplasty. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent free-flap phalloplasty and/or urethroplasty at a single institution from September 2017 to September 2020. In all cases, the DIEA/V were used as recipient vessels. The DIEA/V pedicle was dissected through skin and fascial incisions in the lower abdomen and externalized through a passageway dissected at the medial aspect of the external inguinal ring. Demographics, surgical details, and outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: 31 flaps were anastomosed to the DIEA/V. Mean age was 38 years; mean BMI was 26.9. Mean follow-up was 22.8 months. 29 patients underwent phalloplasty (22 radial-forearm free flap, 9 anterolateral-thigh free flap). 2 patients underwent radial-artery flap urethroplasty. No femoral vessels or interposition grafts were used. Most (90.3%) flaps had two veins anastomosed, using the DIEV. Microvascular outcomes were excellent. Of 31 cases, there was only one case of operative takeback for venous congestion and one case (3.2%) of total flap loss. We explore the lessons learned from this case. There were six (19.4%) cases of dehiscence, most of which were minor and easily repaired. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the DIEA/V as recipient vessels for free-flap phalloplasty has shown excellent outcomes and is our preferred technique. Advantages associated with use of the DIEA/V include a short, direct course to the recipient vessels, good donor-recipient vessel size-match allowing end-to-end anastomosis instead of end-to-side anastomosis, elimination of risks associated with arterialized interposed veins (including potential aneurysm or blow-out from high-pressure flow), reliable dissection anatomy, and a well-hidden scar. Potential pitfalls to avoid include any factors that could compress the pedicle. In cases where venous outflow may be at risk, we recommend a low threshold to use additional local veins for anastomosis, though we rarely need additional veins given the reliability of the DIEV. Source of Funding: none © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e542-e542 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Nance Yuan More articles by this author Edward Ray More articles by this author Maurice Garcia More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

142 Use of the Deep Inferior Epigastric Vessels for Arterial-venous Anastomosis with Free-flap Phallo-urethroplasty: Technique, Key points, and Lessons Learned

Most descriptions of gender-affirming free-flap phalloplasty utilize the femoral vessels as recipient vessels. Owing to short donor-artery length, this requires either an arterialized sapheno-femoral vein loop or a venous jump-graft. Use of the deep inferior epigastric vessels (DIEV) as recipient vessels has previously been reported,but a detailed description of technique, advantages, and pitfalls has not been reported.

Laparoscopy allows the harvest of the DIEP flap with shorter fascial incisions as compared to endoscopic harvest: A single surgeon retrospective cohort study

We present a comparative series to utilize minimally invasive endoscopic, total extraperitoneal laparoscopic (TEP-lap), and transabdominal preperitoneal robotic perforator (TAP-RAP) harvest of the deep inferior epigastric (DIE) vessels for autologous breast reconstruction (ABR) to mitigate donor site morbidity. We hypothesized that TEP-lap and TAP-RAP harvests of abdominal-based free flaps are safe techniques associated with decreased fascial incision when compared with the endoscopic harvest. We designed a retrospective cohort series of subjects with newly diagnosed breast cancer who presented for ABR using endoscopic (control), laparoscopic, or robotic assistance between September 2017 and April 2019. The primary outcome variables were flap success (i.e., absence of perioperative flap loss), fascial incision length, and intraoperative complications. Secondary variables included operating time, costs, and postoperative complications within 90 days (arterial thrombosis, venous congestion, bulge/hernia, and operative revision). Exclusion criteria included < 90 days follow-up. In total 94, 38, and 3 subjects underwent endoscopic, TEP-lap, and TAP-RAP flap harvests. Mean lengths of fascial incisions for the endoscopic and laparoscopic cohorts were 4.5 ± 0.5 cm and 2.0 ± 0.6 cm (p<0.0001), while incision length depended on the concurrent procedure in the robotic cohort. No subjects required conversion to an open harvest. There were no bleeding complications, intra-abdominal injuries, flap losses, or abdominal bulges/hernias noted in the TEP-lap and TAP-RAP cohorts. Minimally invasive DIEP flap harvest may decrease fascial injury when compared with conventional open harvest. There are significant trade-offs among harvest methods. TEP-lap harvest may better balance the trade-off related to abdominal wall morbidity.

Diametric Comparison between the Thoracodorsal Vessel and Deep Inferior Epigastric Vessel in Breast Reconstruction

Background In microvascular anastomosis, size discrepancy is common and can increase thrombotic complications. If size differences can be predicted, then vessels of the appropriate size can be selected. This study documented the difference in diameter between the thoracodorsal (TD) vessel and deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) pedicle in each patient who underwent breast reconstruction using free tissue transfer. Patients and Methods. This retrospective study included 32 anastomoses (27 breasts including five cases of supercharged anastomosis) of breast reconstruction with the free DIEP flap and TD recipient between August 2018 and June 2019. In the microscopic view, the caliber of the TD vessel, the largest branch to the serratus anterior muscle, the descending branch, the largest and the second largest branches to the latissimus dorsi muscle, and the DIEP pedicle were measured. Results The diameter of the deep inferior epigastric artery was similar to that of the descending branch, and their anastomosing rate was 56.3%. The diameter of the deep inferior epigastric vein was similar to the branch to the serratus anterior muscle and the descending branch, and their anastomosing rates were 29.3% and 29.3%, respectively. All flaps were survived; however, in one case, a reoperation was needed to remove the hematoma, in which case fat necrosis occurred as the only complication. Conclusion TD branches of similar size to the DIEP pedicle were prioritized in anastomosis. The descending branch and the branch to the serratus anterior muscle are expected to be good candidates as recipients in breast reconstruction with DIEP free flap. Moreover, supercharged anastomosis of DIEP pedicles can be achieved within TD branches.

Laparoscopically Assisted DIEP Flap Harvest Minimizes Fascial Incision in Autologous Breast Reconstruction.

Total extraperitoneal laparoscopically assisted harvest of the deep inferior epigastric vessels permits a decrease in myofascial dissection in deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction. The authors present a reliable technique that further decreases donor-site morbidity in autologous breast reconstruction. The authors conducted a retrospective cohort study of female subjects presenting to the senior surgeon (S.K.K.) from March of 2018 to March of 2019 for autologous breast reconstruction after a newly diagnosed breast cancer. The operative technique is summarized as follows: a supraumbilical camera port is placed at the medial edge of the rectus muscle to enter the retrorectus space; the extraperitoneal plane is developed using a balloon dissector and insufflation; two ports are placed through the linea alba below the umbilicus to introduce dissection instruments; the deep inferior epigastric vessels are dissected from the underside of the rectus muscle; muscle branches and the superior epigastric are ligated using a Ligasure; and the deep inferior epigastric pedicle is ligated and the vessels are delivered through a minimal fascial incision. The flap(s) is transferred to the chest for completion of the reconstruction. Thirty-three subjects totaling 57 flaps were included. All flaps were single-perforator deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps. Mean fascial incision length was 2.0 cm. Sixty percent of subjects recovered without narcotics. Mean length of stay was 2.5 days. Flap salvage occurred in one subject after venous congestion. Two pedicle transections occurred during harvest that required perforator-to-pedicle anastomosis. Total extraperitoneal laparoscopically assisted harvest of the deep inferior epigastric pedicle is a reliable method that decreases the donor-site morbidity of autologous breast reconstruction. Therapeutic, IV.

Implications of abnormal abdominal wall computed tomographic angiography findings on postmastectomy free flap breast reconstruction.

BackgroundPreoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the abdominal wall vessels is used when planning free flap breast reconstruction (FFBR) because it provides a surgical road map which facilitates flap harvest. However, there are few reports on the effect of abnormal findings on the operative plan.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of all FFBRs performed at a tertiary referral center over a 6-year period (November 2011 to June 2017). One consultant radiologist reported on the findings. Details on patient demographics, CTA reports, and intraoperative details were collected.ResultsTwo hundred patients received preoperative CTAs. Fourteen percent of patients (n=28) had abnormal findings. Of these findings, 18% were vascular anomalies; 36% tumorrelated and 46% were “miscellaneous.” In four patients, findings subsequently prevented surgery; they comprised a mesenteric artery aneurysm, absent deep inferior epigastric (DIE) vessels, bilateral occluded DIE arteries, and significant bone metastases. Another patient had no suitable vessels for a free flap and the surgical plan converted to a pedicled transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap. The remaining incidental findings had no impact on the surgical plan or appropriateness of FFBR. More than one in 10 of those with abnormal findings went on to have further imaging before their operation.ConclusionsCTA in FFBR can have a wider impact than facilitating surgical planning and reducing operative times. Incidental findings can influence the surgical plan, and in some instances, avoid doomed-to-fail and unsafe surgery. It is therefore important that these scans are reported by an experienced radiologist.

Maylard’s incision: how to make an easy incision for complex pelvic abdominal surgery

The video aims to show the Maylard technique, an extended transverse incision characterized by bilateral ligation of the deep inferior epigastric vessels and transection of the anterior rectus abdominis muscles.[1][1]...

Preoperative cross-sectional mapping for deep inferior epigastric and profunda artery perforator flaps.

Perforator flap-based breast reconstruction in a post mastectomy patient requires dissection of the artery-vein bundle (perforators) responsible for perfusion of the subcutaneous fat and skin of the flap. Traditionally, these reconstructions were performed with the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap, but autologous breast reconstruction using muscle sparing free flaps has become steadily more popular in recent years. Preoperative imaging to locate and evaluate candidate perforators has become an essential step before patients undergo the microsurgical procedure. Preoperative mapping assists with operative planning, reduces operating times, and brings anatomical variations to their attention. Pre-operative imaging also assists in choosing the appropriate donor site for harvesting flaps. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) have been widely used for this type of preoperative imaging. Both MRA and CTA have their inherent advantages and disadvantages, and the preferred modality for this purpose varies by institution based on factors such as scanner availability, radiologist and surgeon experience, and comfort in interpreting the images. Concerns over excessive exposure to ionizing radiation and poor iodinated contrast agent enhancement of the intramuscular perforator course has made MRA the first-choice imaging modality in many centers. The purpose of the article is to review technique and protocols for the pre-operative CTA/MRA in patients who are being considered for a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) or profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap and to familiarize the reader with the normal and variant anatomic features of the deep inferior epigastric and PAP vessels along with the anatomic and surgical considerations used in the selection of perforator flap donor site for breast reconstruction post mastectomy.

Contralateral unaffected breast augmentation using zone IV as a SIEA flap during unilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction

BackgroundContralateral breast augmentation during unilateral breast reconstruction is a good option for women with small breasts. In patients with adequate lower abdominal tissues, the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is often the first choice for unilateral autologous breast reconstruction. We use Zone IV, which is usually excised owing to its insufficient blood circulation, as a superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap for contralateral breast augmentation. MethodsBetween October 2004 and January 2016, 32 patients underwent unilateral breast reconstruction using a DIEP flap and an attempted simultaneous contralateral breast augmentation with an SIEA flap. The unilateral DIEP flap attached to the contralateral SIEA flap was split into two separate flaps after indocyanine green angiography. In all patients, ipsilateral internal mammary vessels were used as recipient vessels for DIEP flap breast reconstruction. The SIEA flap pedicle was anastomosed to several branches of the deep inferior epigastric vessels. The SIEA flap was inset beneath the contralateral breast through the midline. ResultsOf 32 patients, 27 underwent DIEP flap breast reconstruction and simultaneous unaffected breast augmentation using 25 SIEA or 2 superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flaps. All DIEP flaps survived, and total necrosis occurred in one SIEA flap. The mean weight of the final inset for DIEP flap reconstruction and SIEA or SCIP flap augmentation was 416 g and 112 g, respectively. ConclusionsUnilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction and contralateral SIEA flap breast augmentation may be safely performed with satisfactory results.