Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction Research Articles

Intraoperative Complications as Predictors of Flap Failure in Autologous Breast Reconstruction.

Intraoperative microvascular complications in autologous breast reconstruction significantly increase the risk of post-operative complications. No study has identified which specific intraoperative complications contribute to partial or total flap loss. A retrospective chart review of microsurgical breast reconstructions by five surgeons between 2009-2020 analyzed operative variables and patient outcomes, with complications determined from the operative report. Flap loss rates were compared between cases with and without intraoperative complications. Statistical analysis was performed using Fischer exact and t-tests for discrete and continuous variables, respectively. Intraoperative complications were analyzed for 1465 autologous breast flaps performed in 916 patients. Early partial flap loss was predicted by arterial anastomosis revision (2.90% vs 0.44%, p=.03) and alternate venous outflow (14.29% vs 0.41%, p=.002), with no association with intraoperative thrombosis, venous revision, or difficult recipient or flap dissection. In comparison, early total flap loss was predicted by intraoperative arterial revision (5.80% vs 0.51%, p=.001), venous revision (5.45% vs 0.57%, p=.007), intraoperative thrombosis (12.12% vs 0.49%, p<.001), and difficult flap dissection (2.91% vs 0.59%, p=.04). Difficult flap dissection was the only intraoperative variable associated with late partial flap loss (6.80% vs 1.69%, p=.004). Late total flap loss only occurred in 6/1465 flaps, the sole association being difficult recipient vessel dissection (2.78% vs 0.29%, p=.03). Post-operative arterial and venous compromise occurred in 1.10% (13/1187) and 2.53% (30/1187) of cases with no intraoperative complications, respectively, compared to 3.2% (9/278, p=0.02) and 6.12% (17/278, p=0.002) in cases with an intraoperative complication. Alternate venous outflow predicts early partial flap loss, while intraoperative thrombosis, and arterial and venous revision predict early total loss. Difficult flap dissection was associated with early total and late partial flap loss, while difficult recipient vessel dissection was associated with late total flap loss.

Sterile Draping of Operative Microscopes in Breast Free Flaps and Surgical Site Infections.

Operative microscopes are traditionally draped in single-use plastic to prevent infection theoretically. The necessity of this routine in breast free flap surgery is unclear. Alternatively, sterile wrapping of microscope handles would reduce operating room waste and provide a more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable approach to sterility. This study aimed to determine whether the draping technique used during abdominally based free flaps (Ab-FF) influenced the rate of surgical site infections. We conducted a retrospective review of Ab-FF performed consecutively between March 2017 and August 2022. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative data, and postoperative complications were collected. The primary outcomes included postoperative surgical site infections and environmental impact. Of the 281 identified breasts reconstructed with Ab-FF, operating microscopes were sterilely covered with microscope drapes (n = 215) or handle covers (n = 66) composed of polyethylene-based plastic. Overall, postoperative infections occurred in 9.3% of cases (n = 26) in either the recipient breast (n = 11, 3.9%) or abdominal donor site (n = 15, 5.3%), primarily due to S. aureus and Streptococcus species . The handle (n = 6, 9.1%) and drape (n = 20, 9.3%) cohorts had similar infection rates with no sequelae of operative complications. In multivariate analysis, radiation was the only independent predictor of postoperative infection, while bilateral reconstructions were independently protective. Replacing a microscope drape with a handle reduces carbon emissions by 1276 grams of CO 2 and direct costs by $7.84 per item. The principles of "Lean and Green" surgery prioritize reducing operating room generated waste to achieve financial and environmental sustainability. This cohort study of 281 breast free flaps demonstrates that switching from whole microscope draping to handle wrapping was not associated with an increased rate or odds of infection. Adopting a microscope handle wrapping protocol decreased the carbon footprint and operative costs. The results of this study offer evidence to support adoption and further exploration of pragmatic, cost-effective, and sustainable approaches to microsurgical breast reconstruction.

Microsurgical breast reconstruction in the United States: a narrative review of the current state.

Breast reconstruction with microsurgical techniques allows for autologous reconstruction after mastectomy without the complications associated with alloplastic reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction has undergone significant improvement and now offers patients a variety of options depending on patient specific factors and aesthetic outcomes. This review aims to focus on the history of autologous reconstruction, operative considerations, general surgical techniques for flaps, and indications for choosing the ideal free tissue transfer for all medical specialties and not only plastic surgeons. A comprehensive review of the literature was performed using PubMed and Embase databases. Manuscripts that provided objective data with respect to history of microsurgical options, surgical techniques, patient considerations, and contraindications were utilized for this review with the objective to simplify data for all non-plastic surgeon readers. In this study, we find that patient selection is critical in successful outcomes for microsurgical breast reconstruction. We find that abdominal free flaps are now considered gold standard for autologous reconstruction. However, reliable alternatives exist for patients who are not considered ideal candidates for this reconstruction. These include thigh-based flaps such as gracilis myocutaneous flaps, profunda artery perforator flaps, lateral thigh perforator flaps and trunk-based flaps such as lumbar artery perforator flap. Postoperative considerations involve clinical monitoring and enhanced recovery after surgery. The rate of reconstructive success and flap viability is greater that 95%, even in high-risk populations, and therefore risk stratification should be performed based on an individual basis. While there are no absolute contraindications to autologous reconstruction, relative contraindications do exist including obesity and elderly populations due to the increased surgical and medical complications. While implant-based reconstruction remains the predominant method of breast reconstruction in the United States, there have been many exciting advancements in autologous reconstruction that offers high aesthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Less Is More: The Role of Mesh in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction with Abdominal Flaps.

The use of mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall after abdominal flap harvest has been reported to decrease the risk of bulging and herniation. However, the impact of the plane of mesh placement in relation to the anterior rectus sheath (vs. no mesh) on postoperative abdominal complications remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed the length of stay and clinical outcomes in 158 female patients who underwent breast reconstruction with 250 free abdominal flaps. Group 1 consisted of patients who underwent polypropylene sublay-onlay ("sandwich") mesh placement (N = 70) versus polypropylene sublay-only mesh (group 2; N = 54) versus primary fascial repair without mesh (group 3; N = 34). Patient demographics and comorbidities were comparable between study groups, except for rates of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (group 1: 53% vs. group 2: 33% vs. group 3: 24% [p < 0.01]), postoperative follow-up in months (group 1: 21.5; group 2: 11.5; group 3: 7.6 [p < 0.01]), and length of stay in days (group 1: 4.9 vs. group 2: 4.4 vs. group 3: 3.3 [p < 0.01]). No differences were observed in breast flap and donor-site complications between study groups. Patients in group 3 required significantly lower oral morphine equivalent units postoperatively compared with those in groups 1 and 2 (group 1:185.5 vs. group 2: 79.7 vs. group 3: 71.6 [p < 0.01]). Abdominal donor-site closure without mesh was associated with a shorter length of stay and less narcotic intake without an increase in donor-site complications. These findings should be considered when deciding to place mesh for donor-site closure after abdominal flap harvest.

Combined microsurgical breast reconstruction and lymphoedema surgery: a systematic review of surgical techniques

Combined microsurgical breast reconstruction and lymphoedema surgery: a systematic review of surgical techniques

Optimizing perfusion and volume in autologous breast reconstruction: dual-plane, conjoined and stacked flaps

Microsurgical breast reconstruction has continued to evolve to improve outcomes and minimize complications. Dual-plane, conjoined and stacked flaps represent one aspect of this evolution in an effort to improve tissue perfusion and flap volume. Dual-plane flaps combine the superficial and deep circulation in abdominally-based free flaps to augment perfusion. Conjoined flaps use additional pedicles to supply multiple perforasomes combined in a single flap. Stacked flaps utilize separate flaps on individual pedicles to increase volume at a single recipient site. Multiple donor sites, pedicle configurations and recipient vessel choices have been described, primarily focusing on using the cranial and caudal internal mammary system as well as intra-flap anastomoses. Though more technically demanding, dual-plane, stacked and conjoined flaps allow for improvement in flap perfusion and volume, and are important tools for optimizing results in autologous breast reconstruction.

HoloDIEP-Faster and More Accurate Intraoperative DIEA Perforator Mapping Using a Novel Mixed Reality Tool.

Microsurgical breast reconstruction using abdominal tissue is a complex procedure, in part, due to variable vascular/perforator anatomy. Preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) has mitigated this challenge to some degree; yet it continues to pose certain challenges. The ability to map perforators with Mixed Reality has been demonstrated in case studies, but its accuracy has not been studied intraoperatively. Here, we compare the accuracy of "HoloDIEP" in identifying perforator location (vs. Doppler ultrasound) by using holographic 3D models derived from preoperative CTA. Using a custom application on HoloLens, the deep inferior epigastric artery vascular tree was traced in 15 patients who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction. Perforator markings were compared against the 3D model in a coordinate system centered on the umbilicus. Holographic- and Doppler-identified markings were compared using a perspective-corrected photo technique against the 3D model along with measurement of duration of perforator mapping for each technique. Vascular points in HoloDIEP skin markings were -0.97 ± 6.2 mm (perforators: -0.62 ± 6.13 mm) away from 3D-model ground-truth in radial length from the umbilicus at a true distance of 10.81 ± 6.14 mm (perforators: 11.40 ± 6.15 mm). Absolute difference in radial distance was twice as high for Doppler markings compared with Holo-markings (9.71 ± 6.16 and 4.02 ± 3.20 mm, respectively). Only in half of all cases (7/14), more than 50% of the Doppler-identified points were reasonably close (<30 mm) to 3D-model ground-truth. HoloDIEP was twice as fast as Doppler ultrasound (76.9s vs. 150.4 s per abdomen). HoloDIEP allows for faster and more accurate intraoperative perforator mapping than Doppler ultrasound.

Discussion: A Novel Framework for Optimizing Efficiency and Education in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction.

Discussion: A Novel Framework for Optimizing Efficiency and Education in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction.

A systematic review on the effect of immediate autologous microsurgical breast reconstruction on the timely initiation of adjuvant therapy

A systematic review on the effect of immediate autologous microsurgical breast reconstruction on the timely initiation of adjuvant therapy

Contemporary Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction: Abdominally Based Flaps.

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the types of abdominally based flaps, their anatomy, and their drawbacks. 2. Understand important aspects of the history and physical examination of patients wishing to undergo these procedures. 3. Understand the benefits of preoperative planning and its role in avoiding complication. 4. Understand the operative steps of the procedures and tips to increase efficiency. 5. Understand the postoperative care of these patients and the role of enhanced recovery pathways. In this article, the authors review the history, current state, and future directions related to abdominally based microsurgical breast reconstruction. This article covers preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations intended to improve patient outcomes and prevent complications. Evidence-based findings are reported when available to comprehensively review important aspects of these procedures.

Suture Packaging as a Marker for Intraoperative Image Alignment in Augmented Reality on Mobile Devices.

Preoperative vascular imaging has become standard practice in the planning of microsurgical breast reconstruction. Currently, translating perforator locations from radiological findings to a patient's abdomen is often not easy or intuitive. Techniques using three-dimensional printing or patient-specific guides have been introduced to superimpose anatomy onto the abdomen for reference. Augmented and mixed reality is currently actively investigated for perforator mapping by superimposing virtual models directly onto the patient. Most techniques have found only limited adoption due to complexity and price. Additionally, a critical step is aligning virtual models to patients. We propose repurposing suture packaging as an image tracking marker. Tracking markers allow quick and easy alignment of virtual models to the individual patient's anatomy. Current techniques are often complicated or expensive and limit intraoperative use of augmented reality models. Suture packs are sterile, readily available, and can be used to align abdominal models on the patients. Using an iPad, the augmented reality models automatically align in the correct position by using a suture pack as a tracking marker. Given the ubiquity of iPads, the combination of these devices with readily available suture packs will predictably lower the barrier to entry and utilization of this technology. Here, our workflow is presented along with its intraoperative utilization. Additionally, we investigated the accuracy of this technology.

Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction can be Performed Safely in Patients with Obesity.

Numerous studies have shown that obesity is a risk factor for postoperative complications following breast reconstruction. Hence, obesity has traditionally been considered a relative contraindication to microsurgical breast reconstruction. In this study, we investigated the impact of obesity on outcomes following microsurgical breast reconstruction. A retrospective analysis of 200 consecutive patients who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction with free abdominal flaps was performed. Subjects were divided into Nonobese (body mass index [BMI] < 30 kg/m2) and Obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) cohorts. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate differences in patient characteristics, complication rates, and efficiency metrics between the two groups. Of the 200 subjects included in the study, 128 were Nonobese, 72 were Obese. The prevalence of diabetes (3.9 vs. 16.9%, p = 0.002) and hypertension (14.7 vs. 39.4%, p < 0.001) were significantly greater in the Obese cohort. Among unilateral reconstructions, postoperative length of stay (LOS) was longer among Obese patients (3.1 vs. 3.6 days, p = 0.016). Seroma occurred more frequently in Obese patients following bilateral reconstruction (5.7 vs. 0.0%, p = 0.047). Otherwise, there were no significant differences in complication rates between the groups. On multivariate analysis, BMI was not independently associated with complications, LOS, or operative time. The improvements in clinical and patient-reported outcomes that have been associated with postmastectomy breast reconstruction do not exclude obese women. This study indicates that microsurgical breast reconstruction can be performed safely and efficiently in patients with obesity.

Modified Clavien-Dindo classification for microsurgical breast reconstruction

Modified Clavien-Dindo classification for microsurgical breast reconstruction

AB153. SOH24AB_253. Microsurgical breast reconstruction training: are trainee’s up for the challenge?

AB153. SOH24AB_253. Microsurgical breast reconstruction training: are trainee’s up for the challenge?

Evaluation of aesthetic results of microsurgical breast reconstruction with DIEP flap (literature review)

Purpose of a study: to explore the main methods of evaluating the aesthetic results of autologous breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator), to identify the key factors influencing the aesthetic result of breast reconstruction.The scientific papers in the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, SCOPUS, Science Direct, RSCI for the period from 2013 to 2023 were analyzed. The systematic review includes articles evaluating the aesthetic result of breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap. The search was carried out by keywords: “breast”, “DIEP flap”, “aesthetic result”, “symmetry of breast”.As a result of the analysis, it was found that the evaluation of the aesthetic results of breast reconstruction is carried out using data of patient reported outcome measures, scales which is used to rate the surgeon’s perception of the aesthetic outcomes and quantitative objective measurements. The key factor influencing the aesthetic result of reconstruction is the symmetry of the breasts.Conclusion. The most commonly used methods for assessing the aesthetic results of breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap are: self-assessment of the results of reconstruction by patients (BREAST-Q questionnaire), evaluation of the results by surgeons (professional aesthetic assessment scales), quantitative objective methods for determining the degree of symmetry. According to many studies, symmetry is a critical factor affecting the aesthetics of the breasts and, consequently, patient satisfaction with the results of reconstruction, psychosocial well-being and quality of life in the long term.

Optimizing Aesthetic Outcomes in Autologous Breast Reconstruction: 20 Pearls for Practice.

Autologous breast reconstruction with a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap is an excellent option for many patients proceeding with mastectomy for surgical management of their breast cancer. As microsurgical techniques and results improve and ensure consistent flap survival, optimizing aesthetic outcomes may become a primary focus. This article outlines 20 tips that can improve aesthetic results in DIEP flap breast reconstruction, based on our senior author's 8-year career in microsurgical breast reconstruction, with an emphasis on enhanced cosmesis. We highlight tips on preoperative planning, intraoperative, and revision stages of the reconstruction and provide a schematic for integrating the tips into a reader's microsurgical breast reconstruction practice.

The Use of Unlisted Billing Codes for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction and Implications for Code Consolidation.

Private insurers have considered consolidating the billing codes presently available for microvascular breast reconstruction. There is a need to understand how these different codes are currently distributed and used to help inform how coding consolidation may impact patients and providers. Using the Massachusetts All-Payer Claims Database between 2016 and 2020, patients who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction following mastectomy for cancer-related indications were identified. Multivariable logistic regression was used to test whether an S2068 claim was associated with insurance type and median household income by patient ZIP code. The ratio of S2068 to CPT19364 claims for privately insured patients was calculated for providers practicing in each county. Total payments for professional fees were compared between billing codes. There were 272 claims for S2068 and 209 claims for CPT19364. An S2068 claim was associated with age < 45 years (OR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.11-3.20, p = 0.019), more affluent ZIP codes (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03-1.19, p = 0.004), and private insurance (OR: 16.13, 95% CI: 7.81-33.33, p < 0.001). Median total payments from private insurers were 101% higher for S2068 than for CPT19364. In all but two counties (Worcester and Hampshire), the S-code was used more frequently than CPT19364 for their privately insured patients. Coding practices for microsurgical breast reconstruction lacked uniformity in Massachusetts, and payments differed greatly between S2068 and CPT19364. Patients from more affluent towns were more likely to have S-code claims. Coding consolidation could impact access, as the majority of providers in Massachusetts might need to adapt their practices if the S-code were discontinued.

An Interdisciplinary, Comprehensive Recovery Pathway Improves Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction Delivery.

Free-flap (autologous) breast reconstruction demonstrates superiority over alloplastic approaches but is offered infrequently. Enhanced recovery protocols can address postoperative challenges, but most literature is limited to inpatient interventions and outcomes. This study describes an adoptable, longitudinally comprehensive and multidisciplinary recovery pathway for autologous reconstruction which adds to the current guidelines. The authors aimed to allow perioperative outcomes comparable to alloplastic reconstructions. All autologous Comprehensive Recovery Pathway (CRP) subjects from a single surgeon were retrospectively included. A comparator group of equal size was randomly selected from institutional subpectoral and dual-plane tissue expander patients having Enhanced Recovery After Surgery guideline-directed care. All subjects in both cohorts received preoperative paravertebral regional blocks. Operative detail, inpatient recovery, longitudinal morphine equivalents (MEs) required, and complications were compared. Each cohort included 71 cases (99 breasts). Despite longer operations, intraoperative MEs were fewer in autologous cases ( P = 0.02). Morphine equivalents during inpatient stay were similar between cohorts, with both being discharged on median day 2. Multivariate regression demonstrated a 0.8-day increased stay for autologous subjects with additional contribution from bilateral cases, body mass index, and age ( P < 0.05). Autologous subjects were regularly discharged postoperative day 1 (17%) and postoperative day 2 (39%), with trend toward earlier discharge ( P < 0.01). Outpatient MEs were significantly fewer in autologous subjects, corresponding to a 30- to 150-mg oxycodone difference ( P < 0.01). Major complication occurred in 12.7% of autologous and 22.5% of alloplastic subjects ( P = 0.11). Flap loss occurred in 1 autologous subject versus 11 alloplastic failures ( P < 0.01). This study details partnership between the plastic surgery service, regional and acute pain anesthesia services, and dedicated nursing with longitudinal optimizations allowing perioperative outcomes improved over current literature. Patients in the CRP used fewer opioids from operation through follow-up with comparable length of stay and significantly fewer reconstructive failures than alloplastic subjects. The pathway may be quickly adopted into academic practice patterns and mitigates traditional barriers, allowing extension of autologous reconstruction offerings.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in Immediate DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction: Reducing Length of Stay and Opioid Use

Background: To improve patient outcomes amid reduced healthcare resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, a single Canadian cancer center implemented an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol for autologous DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 100 consecutive patients undergoing microsurgical breast reconstruction with DIEP flaps using the ERAS protocol and 100 patients using a standard protocol. Primary outcomes were the hospital length of stay and opioid use. Secondary outcomes included postoperative complications, laxative and antiemetic consumption. Results: In this study, 80% of the patients had immediate reconstruction, while the remaining patients received either delayed immediate or delayed reconstruction. Patients in the ERAS group had shorter hospital stays (2.8 vs 4.5 days; P &lt; 0.001) and lower total opioid use (50.2 vs 136.3 mg; P &lt; 0.001). This reduction was also observed when breaking down opiates per day of hospitalization (30.2 vs 18.2 mg; P &lt; 0.001), and in the first 24 postoperatively hours (35.7 vs 67.6 mg; P &lt; 0.001). The control group had a higher incidence of postoperative complications, including seroma, partial and total flap necrosis, compared to the ERAS group. However, readmission rates were similar between the two groups. Conclusion: Implementing the ERAS protocol for DIEP flap breast reconstruction can significantly reduce hospital length of stay and postoperative opioid requirements without increasing the risk of adverse events. This pattern holds true for immediate reconstructions with DIEP flaps.

Postoperative Magnesium Sulfate Repletion Decreases Narcotic Use in Abdominal-Based Free Flap Breast Reconstruction.

Microsurgical breast reconstruction after mastectomy is now the standard of care for breast cancer patients. However, the costs and resources involved in free flap reconstruction can vary across different medical settings. To enhance patient outcomes in a cost-effective manner, we investigated the effect of intravenous magnesium sulfate (IV Mg) on postoperative opioid usage in this context. A retrospective chart review was performed on all consecutive patients who underwent abdominal-based free flap breast reconstruction in a single institute following an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol. Patients who received IV Mg were compared with those who did not receive supplementation. Serum magnesium levels at different time points, narcotic consumption in units of oral morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), and other postoperative recovery parameters were compared. Eighty-two patients were included. Those who received IV Mg on postoperative day 0 (n = 67) showed significantly lower serum magnesium levels before repletion (1.5 vs. 1.7 mg/dL, p = 0.004) and significantly higher levels on postoperative day 1 after repletion (2.2 vs. 1.7 mg/dL, p = 0.0002) compared to patients who received no magnesium repletion (n = 13). While both groups required a similar amount of narcotics on postoperative day 0 (20.2 vs. 13.2 MMEs, p = 0.2), those who received IV Mg needed significantly fewer narcotics for pain control on postoperative day 1 (12.2 MMEs for IV Mg vs. 19.8 MMEs for No Mg, p = 0.03). Recovery parameters, including maximal pain scores, postoperative mobilization, and length of hospital stay, did not significantly differ between the two groups. This is the first study to describe the potential analgesic benefits of routine postoperative magnesium repletion in abdominal-based free flap reconstruction. Further research is necessary to fully understand the role of perioperative magnesium supplementation as part of an ERAS protocol.