Method Of Breast Reconstruction Research Articles

What Are the Long-Term Aesthetic Issues in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction?

Prepectoral placement of prosthetic devices is rapidly becoming the preferred method of breast reconstruction. The objective of this study was to review long-term surgical and aesthetic outcomes following prepectoral prosthetic breast reconstruction. The study included 90 patients (139 breasts). Follow-up for all patients ranged from at least 1 year up to a maximum of 4.3 years. Parameters analyzed included preoperative and postoperative breast symmetry, rippling, edge visibility, and capsular contracture, as well as secondary procedures such as fat grafting, implant exchange, contralateral procedures, and autologous flap conversion. The incidence of breast symmetry, which was noted preoperatively in 84.4% of patients, gradually declined to 68.9% after 1 to 2 years and to 56.7% after 2 to 5 years. Rippling and edge visibility were noted in 19.4% and 12.9% of patients, respectively. Explantation without replacement of the device was performed in 12 breasts (8.6%). Secondary procedures included autologous fat grafting (23.7%), implant replacement (7.2%), conversion to an autologous flap (12.2%), and a contralateral breast procedure in 15 of 41 patients (36.6%). Capsular contracture (grade 3-4) was demonstrated in 14 of 139 breasts (10.1%). Prepectoral breast reconstruction can provide good to excellent short-term (1-2 years) and longer-term (2-4.3 years) benefits; however, over time, the quality of prepectoral breast reconstruction as well as breast symmetry can change due to various factors.

Extended Latissimus Dorsi Kite Flap (ELD-K Flap): Revisiting an Old Place for a Total Autologous Breast Reconstruction in Patients with Medium to Large Breasts.

The latissimus dorsi (LD) flap represents one of the most reliable methods for autologous breast reconstruction. However, in many patients, the exclusive use of this technique may not guarantee the restoration of an adequate volume and projection. We report our experience with the extended latissimus dorsi kite flap (ELD-K flap), an alternative surgical approach to maximize the volume of the fleur-de-lis pattern LD flap, for total autologous breast reconstruction. Between 2016 and 2018, 23 patients were subjected to mastectomy and immediate autologous reconstruction with "extended latissimus dorsi kite flap" (ELD-K flap), technique that employs an extended version of the LD musculocutaneous flap, based on the skeletonized thoracodorsal pedicle and a trilobate skin incision with an inferiorly based vertical branch. The BREAST-Q questionnaire was administered preoperatively, and one year after surgery to evaluate the quality of life results of the patients. BREAST-Q latissimus dorsi module was also provided. Average body mass index was 29.7kg/m2 (range 25-40kg/m2). Mild complications occurred in only six cases, and eight patients underwent treatment to improve the donor site scar outcome. Patients indicated high scores in quality of life measures with an increase in all BREAST domains from the preoperative to the postoperative period. A statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) was noted in: "overall satisfaction with breasts" (p < 0.05), "psychosocial well-being" (p < 0.05), "physical impact of the surgery" (p < 0.05). Within the LD module, participants reported a mean score of, respectively, 73.8 and 67.9 for "satisfaction with back" and "satisfaction with shoulder and back function" domains. The extended incision allows the recruitment of additional tissue to provide enough volume to complete the reconstruction without implants. The isolation of the vascular pedicle allows for extreme freedom and mobilization of the flap, ensuring adequate filling of the breast. ELD-K flap may expand the indications for a total autologous LD immediate breast reconstruction, representing an additional and reliable alternative in selected cohorts of patients. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Breast Reconstruction Using a Three-Dimensional Absorbable Mesh Scaffold and Autologous Fat Grafting: A Composite Strategy Based on Tissue-Engineering Principles.

Breast reconstruction remains an important field in plastic surgery, with most procedures using implants and/or autologous tissue. Few series report on experience with fat grafting as the primary form of breast reconstruction. The present article describes a new method of breast reconstruction using a three-dimensional absorbable mesh construct-or Lotus scaffold-and autologous fat grafting. A retrospective review was performed for all patients who underwent breast reconstruction using the Lotus scaffold and autologous fat grafting. Postoperative mammograms and magnetic resonance imaging scans were analyzed. Tissue specimens collected at subsequent procedures were harvested and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histologic evaluation. Lastly, compression testing of the scaffold was performed using a tensiometer and digital tracking technology. Twenty-two patients underwent reconstruction of 28 breasts using the Lotus scaffold and autologous fat grafting between February of 2015 and February of 2018. Average follow-up was 19 months. All patients were satisfied with final breast shape and size. Mean patient age was 60.5 years and the average body mass index was 28 kg/m. Patients required on average two fat grafting sessions to achieve a successful result (range, zero to four). Postoperative mammography and magnetic resonance imaging showed robust adipose tissue in the breast with a slowly resorbing mesh and no oil cysts or calcifications. Histologic evaluation showed the presence of fat tissue around the scaffold and no evidence of capsule formation. Compression testing revealed the Lotus scaffold to be compliant with a high-resilience profile. The Lotus scaffold with autologous fat grafting is a viable method for breast reconstruction, giving the patient an autologous reconstruction with less morbidity compared to free tissue transfer. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:: Therapeutic, IV.

Safety of Large-Volume Immediate Fat Grafting for Latissimus Dorsi-Only Breast Reconstruction: Results and Related Complications in 95 Consecutive Cases.

Breast reconstruction with implants has proven serious complications, mostly in patients who have undergone radiotherapy. In these cases, autologous reconstruction is the technique of choice. To study if breast reconstruction using latissimus dorsi and immediate fat grafting (LIFG) is a widely applicable technique for those cases in which an autologous reconstruction is desirable, but the use of microsurgical perforator flaps is not available. Data of 95 consecutive breast reconstructions from May 2014 to December 2018 were prospectively collected. All patients included in the study had a minimum follow-up of one year after completion of the reconstructive process. The mean age of the patients was 48.57years with an average follow-up of 20.65months. The mean number of surgeries per patient was 1.61. In 47.4% of the cases, only LIFG surgery was required to accomplish the reconstructive process. The mean volume of fat graft used was 416.00 ± 145.79cc. Relevant statistically significant differences in the volume of graft were found regarding the use of previous radiotherapy and the timing of reconstruction. Radiological fat necrosis nodes were the main complication (15.8%). However, their presence was significantly lower if no additional fat grafting sessions were necessary, though, unexpectedly, no relation was found in relation to the total amount of fat graft needed. LIFG has proved to be a safe and reliable method for total autologous breast reconstruction. Even when a medium to large size is required, a large volume of fat graft is accepted; thus, excellent results can be obtained. It is an interesting alternative for breast reconstruction, in addition to abdominal perforator flaps. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 . Breast Surgery.

Autologous Fat Grafting Does Not Increase Risk of Oncologic Recurrence in the Reconstructed Breast

Introduction: Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is a popular and effective method of breast reconstruction following mastectomy; however, the oncological safety of AFG remains in question. The purpose of this study is to determine if AFG increases the risk of cancer recurrence in the reconstructed breast. Methods: A matched, case-control study was conducted from 2000 to 2017 at the senior author’s institution. Inclusion was limited to female patients who underwent mastectomy and breast reconstruction with or without AFG. Data were further subdivided at the breast level. Chi-square analyses were used to test the association between AFG status and oncologic recurrence. A Cox proportional-hazards model was constructed to assess for possible differences in time to oncologic recurrence. The probability of recurrence was determined by Kaplan-Meier analyses and confirmed with log-rank testing. Results: Overall, 428 breasts met study criteria. Of those, 116 breasts (27.1%) received AFG while 312 (72.9%) did not. No differences in the rates of oncologic recurrence were found between the groups (8.2% versus 9.0%; p < 1.000). Unadjusted (HR:1.03, CI: 0.41 – 2.60; p < 0.957) and adjusted hazard models showed no statistically significant increase in time to oncologic recurrence when comparing AFG to non-AFG. Additionally, no statistical differences in disease-free survival were found (p = 0.96 by log rank test). Conclusion: AFG for breast reconstruction is oncologically safe and does not increase the likelihood of oncologic recurrence. Larger studies (e.g. meta analyses) with longer follow-up are needed to further elucidate the long-term safety of AFG as a reconstructive adjunct.

Breast reconstruction using a laparoscopically harvested pedicled omental flap after endoscopic mastectomy for patients with breast cancer: an observational study of a minimally invasive method.

Breast reconstruction is typically performed using autologous tissue from a laparoscopically harvested omental flap. Because open surgery and another abdominal wall incision for a subcutaneous tunnel cannot be avoided, minimal scars typically cannot be achieved. This study explored a minimally invasive method of pedicled omental flap breast reconstruction in which omentum harvesting, mastectomy, and subcutaneous tunnel establishing were performed laparoscopically and endoscopically, and large incisions on the thoracic and abdominal wall were unnecessary. Ten patients with breast cancer were enrolled. They underwent endoscopic subcutaneous mastectomy (ESM) and single-stage breast reconstruction using a laparoscopically harvested pedicled omental flap (LHPOF), which was pulled through a subcutaneous tunnel that was created under laparoscopic vision. The incisions made on the abdominal wall were no wider than 12 mm, and the thoracic wall incisions were no wider than 30 mm. Three of the patients had a prosthetic implant placed for reconstruction at the same time because of the large breast volume, and the omental flaps were used to cover the prostheses. All patients underwent successful single-stage breast reconstruction surgery, and laparotomy was not required. Eight of the patients (80%) had satisfactory aesthetic results (five had excellent results and three had good results). The incisions at the thoracic wall and in the donor site area were short and hidden. The mean operation time was 367.6 min and the mean time for harvesting the omental flap was 62.9 min, similar to previous studies. The total mean blood loss was 37.0 mL. No serious donor-site complications occurred. LHPOF breast reconstruction combined with ESM is minimally invasive, and satisfactory aesthetic results are achievable. In patients who undergo ESM combined with prosthetic implant reconstruction, the pedicled omental flap can be used to cover the prosthesis instead of using acellular dermal matrix.

Predictive risk factors of complications in different breast reconstruction methods

PurposeWomen with different BMI, age and comorbidities seek for breast reconstruction. It is critical to understand the risk associated with each technique to ensure the most appropriate method and timing is used. Outcome after reconstructions have been studied, but consensus is lacking regarding predictive risk factors of complications. The authors present their experience of different autologous and alloplastic reconstructions with an emphasis on predictors of complications.MethodsProspectively maintained reconstruction database from 2008 to 2019 was reviewed. Factors associated with complications were identified using logistic regression, multinomial logistic regression and risk factor score to determine predictors of complications.ResultsA total of 850 breast reconstructions were performed in 793 women, including 447 DIEP, 283 LD, 12 TMG and 51 implant reconstructions. Complications included minor (n = 231, 29%), re-surgery requiring (n = 142, 18%) and medical complications (n = 7, 1%). Multivariable analysis showed that complications were associated independently with BMI > 30 (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.05–2.39, p = 0.027), LD technique (OR 4.05; 95% CI 2.10–7.81, p < 0.001), asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR 2.77; 95% CI 1.50–5.12, p = 0.001) and immediate operation (OR 0.69; 95% CI 0.44–1.07, p = 0.099). Each factor contributed 1 point in the creation of a risk-scoring system. The overall complication rate was increased as the risk score increased (35%, 61%, 76% and 100% for 1, 2, 3 and 4 risk scores, respectively, p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe rate of complication can be predicted by a risk-scoring system. In increasing trend of patients with medical problems undergoing breast reconstruction, tailoring of preventive measures to patients’ risk factors and careful consideration of the best timing of reconstruction is mandatory to prevent complications and costs.

Utility of Postoperative Prophylactic Antibiotics in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: A Single-Surgeon Experience.

Immediate tissue expander placement remains a preferred method for breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The use of prophylactic postoperative antibiotic administration is thought to reduce rates of surgical site infection and reconstructive failure, but has not been studied in patients undergoing reconstruction in the prepectoral plane. We retrospectively identified all patients undergoing immediate prepectoral tissue expander placement after mastectomy by a single plastic surgeon from 2015 to 2018. We identified 2 cohorts of patients: one group that received prophylactic antibiotics at the time of discharge and one group that did not. We collected treatment and outcomes data to compare rates of postoperative complications between cohorts. We identified 69 patients with 115 breasts who received discharge antibiotics and 63 patients with 106 breasts who did not. The antibiotic cohort had significantly lower rates of tissue expander loss (4.3% vs 17.0%, P = 0.003), unplanned operation (10.4% vs 24.5%, P = 0.007), and infection (7.0% vs 24.5, P < 0.001). The use of prophylactic postoperative antibiotics in prepectoral breast reconstruction is associated with significantly lower rates of postoperative complications. Further randomized controlled studies are warranted to explore the effect of antibiotic therapy on outcomes and to determine what the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy may be.

Complications in Post-mastectomy Immediate Breast Reconstruction: A Ten-year Analysis of Outcomes

IntroductionImmediate breast reconstruction offers cosmetic and psychological advantages post-mastectomy. There are various options of reconstruction, and this study aims to evaluate the associated complications. Patients and MethodsThis is a single-center retrospective study analyzing data from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2017 for immediate breast reconstruction procedures post-mastectomy performed at an academic breast unit. Procedures included expander and implant insertion, latissimus dorsi, pedicle transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM), free TRAM, and deep inferior epigastric perforator. Complications and reoperative complications (defined as those requiring a reoperation within the first 30-day period), and associated risk factors were investigated using separate logistic regressions, and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated. ResultsA total of 243 post-mastectomy immediate breast reconstruction procedures and complications rates were analyzed. The overall complication rate was 27.6%, comprised mainly of reconstruction-specific complications such as post-TRAM hernia or bulges, fat necrosis, and implant capsular contracture and leakage. The rate of reoperative complications was relatively low at 6.6%. The flap failure rate was similar between expander/implant reconstruction and autologous reconstruction methods at 3.3% and 5.6%, respectively (P = .60). Logistic regression identified significantly higher risks associated with diabetes mellitus (OR, 5.21; P = .022), obesity (OR, 5.80; P = .016), and free pedicle autologous reconstruction (OR, 3.975; P = .046) for reoperative complications. ConclusionDifferent methods of immediate breast reconstruction post-mastectomy are feasible and safe. However, patient variables and procedure choice should be taken into consideration when counseling patients on reconstructive options, as they are strong predictors for postoperative complications.

Thinned Pedicle Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) Flap for Scrotal Reconstruction

The deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap has been widely used for approximately 30 years as an effective method for breast reconstruction, defect repair, and perineal reconstruction. However, few literatures have reported on thinned pedicle DIEP flaps for scrotal reconstruction. The present study presents a series of reconstruction of the scrotum using thinned pedicle DIEP flaps. Five patients with large scrotal skin defects were admitted to our hospital from October 2010 to December 2015. Among these patients, three patients had testes and spermatic cord exposure after accidental injury, while two patients had testes exposure after machine extrusion. All of these patients were repaired using thinned pedicle DIEP flaps. During the 12–24-month follow up, one patient experienced a bulky flap, and a subsequent thinned flap was successfully made. The other four flaps were successfully transplanted with good esthetic and functional results. All donor sites were primarily closed; there was no functional disturbance, such as dysuria and abdominal hernia, and the sensation of these flaps partially recovered after 6 months. The thinned pedicle DIEP flap is robust, reliable, and resilient, and offers good-quality skin cover and cushion to the testes. This flap can be considered a good choice for scrotal reconstruction.

Satisfaction with cosmetic outcomes of breast reconstruction: Investigations into the correlation between the patients’ Breast-Q outcome and the judgment of panels

SummaryObjectivesWe aimed to determine the relation between breast reconstruction method, patient satisfaction, and surgeon reported cosmetic outcome among women who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy.Study DesignA cross-sectional study of patients treated between 2006 and 2010.Main OutcomeWomen's satisfaction with cosmetic outcomes after breast reconstruction.MeasuresCosmetic outcomes were evaluated by (1) women using the Breast-Q to rate satisfaction with breasts outcomes, and (2) an independent panel using the Strasser score. The relationships between the Breast-Q rating, Strasser scores, and breast reconstruction methods, including laterality and timing, were evaluated by Mann–Whitney U tests, Spearman's rank correlations, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.ResultsNinety-four women were included. Patients were more satisfied with their breasts if they had undergone autologous, unilateral, or secondary breast reconstruction compared with those who underwent alloplastic, bilateral, or primary breast reconstruction (p-values 0.008, 0.011, and 0.001, respectively). The Strasser system did not reveal significant cosmetic differences, with all breast reconstructions graded as mediocre or poor.ConclusionsPatient satisfaction with breast outcomes, as measured by the Breast-Q, was described as mediocre or poorly reflected by the Strasser score. If doctors are to support patients to make informed decisions on the optimal method of breast reconstruction, we need a more sensitive, comprehensive tool reflecting patients’ cosmetic outcomes.

Autologous Fat Grafting Does Not Increase Risk of Oncologic Recurrence in the Reconstructed Breast.

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is a popular and effective method of breast reconstruction after mastectomy; however, the oncological safety of AFG remains in question. The aim of this study was to determine whether AFG increases the risk of cancer recurrence in the reconstructed breast. A matched, case-control study was conducted from 2000 to 2017 at the senior author's institution. Inclusion was limited to female patients who underwent mastectomy and breast reconstruction with or without AFG. Data were further subdivided at the breast level. χ analyses were used to test the association between AFG status and oncologic recurrence. A Cox proportional-hazards model was constructed to assess for possible differences in time to oncologic recurrence. The probability of recurrence was determined by Kaplan-Meier analyses and confirmed with log-rank testing. Overall, 428 breasts met study criteria. Of those, 116 breasts (27.1%) received AFG, whereas 312 (72.9%) did not. No differences in the rates of oncologic recurrence were found between the groups (8.2% vs 9.0%, P < 1.000). Unadjusted (hazard ratio = 1.03, confidence interval = 0.41-2.60, P < 0.957) and adjusted hazard models showed no statistically significant increase in time to oncologic recurrence when comparing AFG to non-AFG. In addition, no statistical differences in disease-free survival were found (P = 0.96 by log rank test). Autologous fat grafting for breast reconstruction is oncologically safe and does not increase the likelihood of oncologic recurrence. Larger studies (eg, meta analyses) with longer follow-up are needed to further elucidate the long-term safety of AFG as a reconstructive adjunct.

Immediate Latissimus Dorsi and Prosthetic Reconstruction in the Setting of Postmastectomy Radiation: An Analysis of 376 Breast Reconstructions.

In immediate breast reconstruction, the plastic surgeon must strive to create an aesthetically pleasing result while minimizing complications. The latissimus dorsi (LD) myocutaneous flap has long been used a workhorse flap in breast reconstruction. Often times, it is used a salvage flap after other methods of breast reconstruction have failed. In this study, we review the use of this flap in conjunction with prosthetic devices, regardless of the need for adjuvant radiation, to determine the safety and efficacy of this approach as a primary method of reconstruction. A single surgeon practice with a standardized reconstructive algorithm was reviewed. This compromises a 2-stage approach involving the use of LD myocutaneous flaps and tissue expanders for immediate reconstruction after mastectomy, followed by exchange for implants at a secondary surgery. A retrospective chart review was performed on 201 patients (376 breast reconstructions) who met inclusion criteria. Patient demographics and outcomes were compared based on radiation status. The primary outcome, reconstructive success, was defined as no need for further autologous reconstruction beyond the 2-stage approach utilized. Statistical analysis was performed on both patient demographics, complications, and reconstructive outcomes. Demographics were equivalent between the 2 groups. When analyzing complications and outcomes, there was no difference between nonradiated patients and radiated patients except when looking at reconstructive loss, which was 3.6% in the nonradiated group and 16.6% in the radiated group (P = 0.03). However, one third of the patients in the radiated group who had reconstructive losses were due to reasons not related to radiation therapy. Taking this into account, overall reconstructive success showed no statistical significance between the 2 groups. The findings from this study show that immediate reconstruction with LD myocutaneous flaps in conjunction with prosthetic devices is a reliable and safe option, even in the setting of adjuvant radiation therapy, as the autologous tissue mitigates many sequelae of radiation therapy. Not only does this type of reconstruction provide an aesthetically pleasing result in 2 stages, but also has a favorable complication profile and success rate.

The Feasibility of a Sensate Profunda Artery Perforator Flap in Autologous Breast Reconstruction: An Anatomic Study for Clinical Application.

The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap has been demonstrated to be an effective method of autologous breast reconstruction, particularly when the abdominal donor site is contraindicated. However, there are no current reports regarding the use of a sensate PAP flap in this type of reconstruction. The objective of this study is to describe the feasibility and anatomic location of the sensory nerves supplying the PAP flap in relation to surface landmarks for use in autologous breast reconstruction. In this anatomic study, 10 cadaver lower limbs were microsurgically dissected. We investigated the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve (PFCN), which supplies sensation to the skin of the posterior thigh and distribution of the PAP flap. The midline of the posterior thigh and gluteal crease were used for surface landmarks. The diameter and length of the nerve branches were documented. There were between 2 and 5 PFCN branches, with an average of 3 branches, that were found within the distribution of the PAP flap. Measurements were taken from the gluteal crease and midline to the nerve branches. The average distance caudal to the gluteal crease was 2.4 cm (0 to 7 cm). The average distance medial to the midline was 4.3 cm (0.2 to 8.1 cm). The average diameter of the nerve branches was 1.8 mm (1 to 2.5 mm). The average length of nerve branches from the flap to the fascia was 2.0 cm (1.5 to 2.4 cm). The maximum length of the nerve branches from the flap to the main trunk of the PFCN was 7.8 cm when tracing the nerve branches intramuscularly. The findings from this study provide an anatomic basis for the sensate PAP flap that would potentially provide an additional dimension to the use of this perforator flap in autologous breast reconstruction. These preliminary results are promising, and further physiological studies are warranted to validate the use of this sensate flap.

The island-type pedicled TRAM flap: Improvement of the aesthetic outcomes of breast reconstruction

The pedicled transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (TRAM) remains an effective and widely-used method for breast reconstruction despite well-documented donor-site morbidity. We present the island-type pedicled TRAM flap as a way to obtain better and more reliable outcomes in breast reconstruction. A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent breast reconstruction with an island-type pedicled TRAM flap was performed. Patient demographics and complications were reviewed. In the island-type pedicled TRAM flap, we transversely resected the upper ipsilateral rectus muscle surrounding the origin of the superior epigastric vessels, preserving only a 1-cm muscle strip including the vascular pedicle to prevent epigastric bulging and inframammary fold (IMF) disruption. The flap was turned over into the ipsilateral breast pocket. The IMF was repaired except for the portion where the pedicle was placed. From January 2013 to November 2017, 88 patients underwent surgery using the island-type pedicled TRAM flap. The etiology of the defect was breast cancer with mastectomy in 86 cases, and paraffinoma in two cases. Seventy-seven patients underwent unilateral reconstruction, and 11 patients underwent bilateral reconstruction. Minor fat necrosis occurred in eight cases. Mild inframammary or epigastric bulging was observed in five cases, and neither partial nor total flap necrosis was observed. The aesthetic outcome of the IMF was evaluated in 55 cases, and 53 cases received good overall scores. Although the island-type pedicled TRAM flap is technically challenging because careful dissection and pedicle identification is required, it can provide more reliable and better aesthetic results without an increased risk of vascular compromise.

SWIM Flap: Skin-Sparing, Wise Pattern, Internal Mammary Perforator Breast Reconstruction

Here we present a novel method of breast reconstruction, a skin-sparing, wise pattern, internal mammary perforator (SWIM) flap. The nipple-sparing mastectomy is completed as per the oncological standard. Reconstruction is then performed, using only local flaps to create a breast. The nipple is carried on a medial flap that is based on the internal mammary perforators. A lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP) flap can also be utilized for additional volume. There is no implant or anastomosis required and no muscle is sacrificed. Incisions are closed based on a classic Wise pattern. Seven patients underwent bilateral SWIM flaps for a total of fourteen breasts, with minimal complications limited to minor wound healing and one case of operative fat necrosis. All patients were satisfied with their results, with two patients desiring larger breast size and undergoing fat grafting at a secondary surgery.

Alloplastic Breast Reconstruction

"Immediate breast reconstruction is a surgical technique that involves placing an implant or expander in the same operation with the mastectomy intervention. Thus, the remaining flaps are viable, fresh and the remaining space can be filled with an implant. Patient satisfaction is increased, thus avoiding the psychological shock of not having a breast and they support better the following interventions. The aim of this paper is to review and find in the current literature the indications and technique of immediate breast reconstruction in order to help surgeons to choose and perform the most appropriate breast reconstruction method. We have also researched in the literature the rates of complications that have arisen, especially in the case of subsequent radiotherapy. Multidisciplinary approach of these cases presented the key to success, oncological safety is the main concern, then the reconstruction must respect the patient's requirements and ensure the best aesthetic result."

A Clinical Algorithm for Breast Cancer Patients: Exploring Reconstructive Options after Radiation

As radiation therapy is used as an adjuvant treatment in an increasing number of women during the management of breast cancer, radiation therapy and its well-known adverse effects pose additional challenges for breast reconstruction. The purpose of this review is to examine recent data on outcomes of various breast reconstruction methods in the setting of radiation therapy and help surgeons and oncologists as well as patients with their decision-making process. Breast reconstruction methods can be categorized into autologous-, implant-, and tissue expander/implant-based, each with its distinct advantages and disadvantages. Autologous and tissue expander/implant are preferred when radiation therapy is expected based on surgical, aesthetic, and patient satisfaction. Use of latissimus dorsi flaps and acellular dermal matrix with tissue expander/implant has shown several advantages to traditional methods. For patients who have a high likelihood of requiring postmastectomy radiation therapy, choosing a breast reconstruction method depends on multiple factors. Patients and surgeons should be aware of the impact of radiation therapy so that they can make a well-informed decision.

Efficacy comparison of immediate breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery and modified radical mastectomy

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy and cosmetic outcome of two methods of immediate breast reconstruction and modified radical mastectomy for the patients with breast cancer after breast cancer surgery. Methods The clinical data of 95 patients with early breast cancer in the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University from October 2014 to September 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into latissimus dorsi combined with implants group (27 cases), titanium-coated polypropylene mesh combined with implants group (18 cases) and modified radical group (50 cases). The differences of surgical data, postoperative complications and quality of life were compared in the three groups. The postoperative cosmetic effect of two immediate reconstruction groups was observed. Results The differences of drainage duration and intraoperative blood loss in the three groups were not statistically significant (both P > 0.05). There were statistical differences in the hospital stay and the postoperative quality of life score (both P 0.05]. Conclusions Immediate breast reconstruction including latissimus dorsi combined with implants or titanium-coated polypropylene mesh combined with implants after radical mastectomy on the basis of indications can improve the quality of life and the cosmetic results of patients, but postoperative treatment is necessary for the increased complications after the two reconstruction methods. Key words: Breast neoplasms; Immediate breast reconstruction; Latissimus dorsi flap; Titanium-coated polypropylene mesh; Breast implant; Radical mastectomy

Breast Reconstruction Using a 3-dimensional Absorbable Mesh Scaffold and Autologous Fat Grafting: A Composite Strategy Using Tissue Engineering Principles

BACKGROUND: Breast reconstruction remains an important field in plastic surgery, with most procedures utilizing implants and/or autologous tissue. Few series report on experience with fat grafting as the primary form of breast reconstruction. This study reports a novel method of breast reconstruction using a 3-dimensional absorbable mesh scaffold and subsequent autologous fat grafting (AFG). METHODS: A retrospective review was performed for all patients who underwent breast reconstruction using Lotus scaffold and AFG. Postoperative mammogram and magnetic resonance imaging were analyzed, and tissue specimens collected at subsequent procedures were harvested and stained with H&E for histologic evaluation. Finally, compression testing of the scaffold was performed using a tensiometer and digital tracking technology. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients underwent reconstruction of 28 breasts using Lotus scaffold and AFG between February 2015 and February 2018. Average follow-up was 19 months. All patients were satisfied with final breast shape and size. Mean patient age was 60.5 years, and average body mass index was 28. Patients required on average 2 fat grafting sessions to achieve a successful result (range, 1–4). Postoperative mammogram and magnetic resonance imaging revealed robust adipose tissue in the breast with a slowly resorbing mesh and no oil cysts or calcifications. Histologic evaluated revealed no capsule formation with ingrowth of fat tissue around the scaffold. Compression testing revealed that the Lotus scaffold is a compliant construct with a high resilience profile. CONCLUSIONS: The Lotus scaffold with AFG is a viable method for breast reconstruction, giving the patient an autologous reconstruction with less morbidity than free tissue transfer.