Search Results (44)

Background: Robotic deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap surgery is a technique used for autologous breast reconstruction to maintain the integrity of the rectus abdominis muscle while also utilizing robotic assistance for flap harvest. This study assesses postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing robotic DIEP flap reconstruction through the measurement of postoperative pain, narcotics use, and antiemetic usage. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed for patients undergoing robotic DIEP flap breast reconstruction between March 2024 and March 2025. Postoperative pain scores (1–10 scale), narcotics usage (measured in oral morphine equivalents), antiemetic usage, and complications were recorded. Patient outcomes were compared to a control group of 40 patients who had undergone abdominal-based free flap breast reconstruction. Results: Overall, 14 patients underwent robotic DIEP flap breast reconstruction, representing 24 breasts. The average patient age was 56.5 (range: 30–73). Ten patients underwent bilateral breast reconstruction, and four underwent unilateral breast reconstruction. The average length of stay postoperatively was 4.86 days (±1.23 days), and the return of bowel function occurred in 1.29 days (±0.47 days). No patients experienced an unplanned return to the OR or flap failure. Average pain scores on postoperative day 1 (POD1), 2 (POD2), and 3 (POD3) were 4.0 (±0.6), 3.4 (±0.6), and 2.93 (±0.5), respectively. Average antiemetic usage totalled 1.25 doses (±0.25). Average daily OME use was 27.7 (±5.0) for POD1, 25.96 (±6.3) for POD2, and 21.23 (±7.11) for POD3. This averaged to a total hospital OME use of 74.9 (±15.7) per patient. Patients undergoing robotic DIEP flap reconstruction required a significantly lower narcotics dosage, as well as a lower antiemetic dosage, during the first three days postoperatively compared to the control abdominal free flap group. Average pain scores in the robotic DIEP flap reconstruction patient group were also significantly decreased, specifically in POD2 and POD3. Conclusions: The robotic DIEP flap offers advantages in autologous breast reconstruction compared to other abdominal free flap reconstructive methods. In this limited retrospective study, the use of the robotic DIEP flap lowers chances of flap failure and complications, while also improving narcotics use, antiemetic use, and postoperative pain. Full article

Background: The Profunda Artery Perforator (PAP) flap is a viable alternative to the Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap, particularly for patients with low BMI and therefore insufficient abdominal tissue. To reduce the high complication rate, especially in our low BMI patient population, we have adapted the use of the vertical skin island design. This study compares complication rates and long-term outcomes of vertical versus horizontal skin island designs in PAP flap breast reconstruction. Methods: This prospective, single-center study included 20 patients who underwent PAP flap breast reconstruction. Quality of life and scar quality were assessed using the BREAST-Q and POSAS questionnaires. Additionally, the cosmetic outcomes were analyzed by four plastic surgeons. Results: Mean BMI in the vertical group was 23.9 kg/m² and 22.7 kg/m² in the horizontal group. Mean flap weight was 326 g for the vertical group and 355 g for the horizontal group. Fewer complications were observed at the donor site in the vertical group (Clavien–Dindo Classification 3b at donor site: p = 0.25). The BREAST-Q evaluation revealed significantly better results regarding the psycho-social well-being (p = 0.04) in patients with the horizontalskin island design. Scar evaluation using the POSAS revealed that the scar was perceived as thinner (p = 0.02), less pigmented (p = 0.03), and showed less relief (p = 0.02) in the vertical group. No significant difference was observed in the overall scar assessment by observers (p = 0.46). The aesthetic analysis by plastic surgeons showed significantly better results in the horizontal group. Conclusions: The vertical skin island design in PAP flap breast reconstruction was associated with lower complication rates and better scar quality compared to the horizontal design. Surgeons, however, rated the overall aesthetic outcome of the vertical design less favorably. These findings highlight the importance of balancing donor site morbidity with overall aesthetic results. Full article

Background/Objectives: Accurately determining the bacterial bioburden that survives preoperative skin preparation (PSP) is critical in understanding PSP efficacy and its limitations. Clinical PSP approval relies on a bacterial sampling method described in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard E1173-15. Though common, this technique may overlook deep-dwelling skin bacteria. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that deep-dwelling skin flora would survive PSP, and more growth would be detected using a destructive sampling method compared with ASTM E1173-15. Methods: Twelve female participants with a scheduled deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) artery flap procedure at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, UT, were enrolled between January and August 2024. PSP was performed using three 26 mL ChloraPrep applicators (2% CHG), and excess tissue was collected. Bacteria in the skin were quantified using a destructive sampling method and ASTM E1173-15, and bioburden outcomes were compared. Two participants were excluded from the quantitative analysis. Results: Bacteria survived PSP in every participant. A greater diversity and more bacteria were quantified with destructive sampling than ASTM E1173-15 (p < 0.01). Generally, anaerobic bioburden values were higher than aerobic bioburden values. Higher bioburden correlated with processing more skin from a participant. Genotypic identification of select isolates identified Staphylococcus epidermidis and Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes) as surviving bacteria, among others. Immunofluorescence revealed bacteria in all skin layers. No participant exhibited clinical signs of infection in the abdominal region. Human data corroborated previous porcine data collected using destructive skin sampling after PSP. Conclusions: Clinical PSP application does not create a sterile field. Destructive skin sampling techniques may be more effective than ASTM E1173-15 at resolving bacterial PSP survivors contributing to SSI risk. Full article

Background: The deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap is currently the most widely used method for autologous breast reconstruction. Its primary advantage over the transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap is the reduction in donor-site morbidity, as it preserves the integrity of the abdominal muscles and motor nerves. Importantly, each patient’s unique vascular anatomy requires an individualized approach to perforator selection and the surgical technique. Objective: We aimed to minimize donor-site morbidity and refine the perforator selection strategy in delayed DIEP flap breast reconstruction using the abdominal perforator exchange (APEX) technique. Materials and Methods: In this study, we prospectively and retrospectively analyzed the use of the APEX technique in patients undergoing delayed DIEP flap breast reconstruction between April 2020 and October 2024. All patients underwent preoperative non-contrast magnetic resonance angiography of the donor area. A total of 106 patients were enrolled and divided into two groups: 34 patients underwent reconstruction using the APEX technique, and 72 patients received standard DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Results: Our study demonstrated a statistically significant increase in operative time, averaging 30.5 min in the APEX group (p < 0.05). There was also a significant difference in the incidence of marginal flap necrosis between the two groups. No cases of myotomy were observed, and motor nerve transection was required in one case. Conclusions: The APEX technique has been shown to be reliable when standard dissection would compromise the neuromuscular anatomy of the abdominal wall without compromising perfusion in the flap. Full article

Background/Objectives: Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction is considered the gold standard for autologous breast reconstruction due to its favorable aesthetic results and low donor site morbidity. Nevertheless, it remains associated with potentially life-threatening complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). This report aims to describe a complex clinical case in which severe thromboembolic and ischemic complications occurred despite adherence to standard prophylactic protocols. Methods: We present the case of a 65-year-old female with multiple thromboembolic risk factors—including obesity, a history of heavy smoking, hormone therapy, and prior COVID-19 infection—who underwent immediate bilateral breast reconstruction with DIEP flaps following mastectomy. Results: Within the first 24 h postoperatively, the patient developed a massive pulmonary embolism requiring intensive care management. Despite appropriate anticoagulation and supportive measures, she subsequently experienced full-thickness necrosis of the central portion of the abdominal flap. Thrombophilia screening and diagnostic imaging did not reveal peripheral venous thrombosis, raising the hypothesis of a hypercoagulable state potentially related to prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conclusions: This case underscores the importance of individualized risk stratification and suggests that current prophylaxis protocols may be insufficient for patients with overlapping thrombotic risk factors. The findings advocate for further investigation into the long-term vascular effects of COVID-19 and support reconsidering extended or intensified prophylaxis in high-risk populations undergoing complex microsurgical procedures. Full article

Background: Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women with an improving mortality rate and a growing need for reconstruction following oncologic resection. Advancements in robotic surgery and minimally invasive techniques have offered refinement to traditional open techniques of flap harvest for reconstruction, particularly regarding improved donor site morbidity. Methods: The literature review was based on a PubMed database search using the keyword “Robotic breast reconstruction” in conjunction with the Boolean operators “Flap”, “Latissimus”, and “DIEP” to specify the search. In total, 106 results were generated, which were then manually reviewed and condensed for a comprehensive stance on the current status, technique, variations, and outcomes for robotic breast reconstruction. Results: Robotic technique has been described for the latissimus dorsi (LD) and deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps for breast reconstruction. For LD, robotic flap harvest reduces donor site morbidity, incisional length, and hospital length of stay, with similar complication rates for seroma/hematoma/infection, and longer operative times. Robotic LD procedures have been described in conjunction with single-site nipple-sparing mastectomy and flap elevation leading to a full minimally invasive resection and reconstruction from one lateral incision. Robotic DIEP harvest offers a considerably smaller fascial incision/rectus muscle dissection and has a comparable complication rate to traditional techniques with shorter hospital length of stay, and improved pain, at the expense of longer operating times. Data on hernia/bulge reduction from robotic techniques is limited and not yet available. Conclusions: Robotic breast reconstruction offers great potential for improving breast reconstruction in terms of donor site morbidity, length of incision, hospital length of stay at the cost of longer operating times, and increased technical skill/specialization, but it has yet to be proven on a large scale with long-term outcome data. Multi-center, prospective clinical data and trials are needed to help elucidate the potential for equivalence and superiority of the minimally invasive approach compared to standard open techniques, but the future is promising for robotic surgery in breast cancer and breast reconstruction. Full article

Background: While radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy (CT) significantly improve breast cancer outcomes, they may affect breast reconstruction by causing vascular damage and delayed wound healing. This retrospective study evaluates how preoperative RT, CT, or the combination of both impacts intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in immediate or delayed deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstructions. Methods: We conducted a single-center review of all patients undergoing autologous DIEP flap reconstruction after mastectomy between 2018 and 2024. Patients were divided into four groups: RT only, CT only, a combination of RT and CT, and a control group with no preoperative therapies. Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were then compared among these groups, with statistical significance defined as p < 0.05. Results: We included 114 patients representing 141 DIEP-flap breast reconstructions. Flap survival rate was 98.5%. In the univariate analysis, total microvascular recipient site complications were significantly higher in the RT + CT group (14.0%, p = 0.021). Donor-site complication rates differed significantly among the four groups (p = 0.025), with the highest rate observed in the RT + CT group (44.7%). In the logistic regression analysis, ischemia time was found as an independent risk factor for total recipient site complications, but not for microvascular complications (OR = 1.019, 95%-CI = 1.004–1.035, p = 0.014). Conclusions: Combined RT + CT significantly increased microsurgical complications. Ischemia time correlated with higher odds of total recipient site complications. Individualized patient management and diminished ischemia time are likely to improve flap survival. Full article

Background: Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction is an increasingly popular technique, but controversy exists regarding the optimal use of closed suction drains (CSD) at the abdominal donor site. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on CSD application, criteria for placement/removal, and complications in DIEP flap procedures. Alternative techniques and implications for postoperative care are also discussed. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in August 2024 across several databases to identify English language studies related to CSD use in DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Inclusion criteria consisted of original research on aspects such as CSD volume criteria, timing, complications, alternatives like progressive tension sutures, and impact on showering and patient outcomes. References from relevant papers were hand-searched. Results: The review found a lack of consensus on CSD protocols, with drainage volume triggering removal varying widely from 5 mL to 80 mL daily. While CSD may reduce seroma/hematoma formation, earlier removal (≤3 days) did not increase complications and shortened hospital stay. Progressive tension sutures show promise as an alternative, with evidence of comparable or reduced complications and improved recovery versus CSD. The safety of early showering with drains remains unclear. Conclusions: Although CSD aims to minimize postoperative complications, more rigorous randomized trials are needed to establish evidence-based practices for the timing of removal and demonstrate the efficacy of emerging drain-free techniques on patient-centered outcomes. Standardized criteria could reduce practice variability. Further research should also explore the long-term impact of drainage strategies on aesthetic and functional results. Full article

Introduction: Reconstructive plastic surgeons have made great strides in the field of breast reconstruction to achieve the best results for patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer. As microsurgical techniques have evolved, these patients can benefit from additional treatment modalities to optimize the results of the reconstruction. Free tissue transfer from alternative donor sites for breast reconstruction is routinely performed, which was not possible in the past. Neurotization is now possible to address the numbness and lack of sensation to the reconstructed breast. For those patients who develop lymphedema of the upper extremity as a result of their breast cancer care, supermicrosurgical options are now available to treat and even to prevent the development of lymphedema. This study presents a narrative review regarding the latest microsurgical advancements in autologous free flap breast reconstruction. Methods: A literature review was performed on PubMed with the key words “autologous free flap breast reconstruction”, “deep inferior epigastric perforator flap”, “transverse upper gracilis flap”, “profunda artery perforator flap”, “superior gluteal artery perforator flap”, “inferior gluteal artery perforator flap”, “lumbar artery perforator flap”, “breast neurotization”, “lymphovenous bypass and anastomosis”, and “vascularized lymph node transfer”. Articles that specifically focused on free flap breast reconstruction, breast neurotization, and lymphedema surgery in the setting of breast cancer were evaluated and included in this literature review. Results: The literature search yielded a total of 4948 articles which were screened. After the initial screening, 413 articles were reviewed to assess the relevance and applicability to the current study. Conclusions: Breast reconstruction has evolved tremendously in recent years to provide the most natural and cosmetically pleasing results for those patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer. As technology and surgical techniques have progressed, breast cancer patients now have many more options, particularly if they are interested in autologous reconstruction. These advancements also provide the possibility of restoring sensibility to the reconstructed breast as well as treating the sequela of lymphedema due to their cancer treatment. Full article

Background: Perforator mapping is a mandatory tool for the preoperative planning of a microsurgical free flap, especially in breast reconstruction. Numerous methods for mapping have been described. In this study, we investigate the combined use of Dynamic Infrared Thermography (DIRT) and Colour Doppler Ultrasonography (CDUS) only to see whether it can eliminate the need for Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 33 patients with deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps for breast reconstruction. DIRT, followed by CDUS and CTA, was performed preoperatively and perforators were confirmed intraoperatively. Results: From 135 hot spots found on DIRT, 123 perforators were confirmed by CDUS (91.11%). A total of 86.66% of the perforator vessels detected on CTA have their correspondent on DIRT, while 95.12% have their correspondent on CDUS. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was found comparing DIRT vs. CTA and CDU vs. CTA. The average DIRT time was 121.54 s and CDUS 232.09 s. The mean sensitivity for DIRT was 95.72% and 93.16% for CDUS. Conclusion: DIRT combined with CDUS can precisely and efficiently identify suitable perforators without the need for CTA in DIEP breast reconstruction. Full article

Microsurgical autologous breast reconstruction (MABR) remains the gold standard technique of breast reconstruction, providing a durable, natural, and aesthetically pleasing result. However, some patients may not be candidates for a traditional deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap, either due to abdominal tissue paucity, the need for higher-volume reconstruction, or prior surgical procedures. In these patients, alternative flaps must be considered to achieve the optimal result. Such configurations include the conjoined (or double pedicle) DIEP flap, and alternative flaps such as the lumbar artery perforator (LAP) and profunda artery perforator (PAP) flaps, which can be combined in a stacked fashion. By combining multiple flaps in a conjoined or stacked fashion, breast reconstruction can be optimized to fulfill the three critical components of breast reconstruction in restoring the skin envelope, breast footprint, and conus shape. When harvesting multiple flaps, the surgical sequence of events must be meticulously planned to ensure an efficient and successful operation. Preoperative imaging can aid the surgeon in identifying the ideal perforator, assess for side branches for possible intra-flap anastomoses, expedite the operative time, and decrease intraoperative complications. Reconstructive surgeons should be familiar with the variety of configurations with conjoined and/or stacked flaps to address patient-specific reconstructive needs. Full article

The evolution of imaging actively shapes clinical management in the field. Ultrasonography (US), computed tomography angiography (CTA), and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) stand out as the most extensively researched imaging modalities for ABR. Ongoing advancements include “real-time” angiography and three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging, and future prospects incorporate augmented or virtual reality (AR/VR) and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies may further enhance perioperative efficiency, reduce donor-site morbidity, and improve surgical outcomes in ABR. Full article

Objectives: This review aims to explore recent advancements in optical imaging techniques for monitoring the viability of Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction. The objectives include highlighting the principles, applications, and clinical utility of optical imaging modalities such as near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography, laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), hyperspectral imaging (HSI), dynamic infrared thermography (DIRT), and short-wave infrared thermography (SWIR) in assessing tissue perfusion and oxygenation. Additionally, this review aims to discuss the potential of these techniques in enhancing surgical outcomes by enabling timely intervention in cases of compromised flap perfusion. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify studies focusing on optical imaging techniques for monitoring DIEP flap viability. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and relevant databases, including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, IEEE Xplore, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, among others, using specific keywords related to optical imaging, DIEP flap reconstruction, tissue perfusion, and surgical outcomes. This extensive search ensured we gathered comprehensive data for our analysis. Articles discussing the principles, applications, and clinical use of NIRS, ICG fluorescence angiography, LSCI, HSI, DIRT, and SWIR in DIEP flap monitoring were selected for inclusion. Data regarding the techniques’ effectiveness, advantages, limitations, and potential impact on surgical decision-making were extracted and synthesized. Results: Optical imaging modalities, including NIRS, ICG fluorescence angiography, LSCI, HSI, DIRT, and SWIR offer a non- or minimal-invasive, real-time assessment of tissue perfusion and oxygenation in DIEP flap reconstruction. These techniques provide objective and quantitative data, enabling surgeons to monitor flap viability accurately. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of optical imaging in detecting compromised perfusion and facilitating timely intervention, thereby reducing the risk of flap complications such as partial or total loss. Furthermore, optical imaging modalities have shown promise in improving surgical outcomes by guiding intraoperative decision-making and optimizing patient care. Conclusions: Recent advancements in optical imaging techniques present valuable tools for monitoring the viability of DIEP flap reconstruction. NIRS, ICG fluorescence angiography, LSCI, HSI, DIRT, and SWIR offer a non- or minimal-invasive, real-time assessment of tissue perfusion and oxygenation, enabling accurate evaluation of flap viability. These modalities have the potential to enhance surgical outcomes by facilitating timely intervention in cases of compromised perfusion, thereby reducing the risk of flap complications. Incorporating optical imaging into clinical practice can provide surgeons with objective and quantitative data, assisting in informed decision-making for optimal patient care in DIEP flap reconstruction surgeries. Full article

Introduction: Sarcoma resection often leaves patients with big defects only amenable through microsurgical reconstruction. In such cases, it is hard for the surgeon to uphold low donor-site morbidity with an aesthetic result. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical outcome and the patient’s perception regarding the donor site in a cohort of patients undergoing microsurgical reconstruction with lateral thigh and lower abdominal perforator flaps. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of all patients who underwent sarcoma reconstruction with flaps harvested from the lower abdominal region (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap, superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap) or lateral thigh region (anterolateral thigh perforator flap and its variations) was performed. Only patients with defects greater than 100 cm² were included. Patient demographics and operative variables were recorded, together with complications. Patient satisfaction and quality of life with the donor site were registered using the SCAR-Q questionnaire, which was administered at least six months post-operatively. Results: Eighteen anterolateral thigh (ALT) perforator flaps and twenty-two deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) and superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap procedures were performed. The two groups were homogeneous for major post-operative complications (p > 0.999). Patient satisfaction with the donor site measured using the SCAR-Q questionnaire showed significantly higher scores in the DIEP/SCIP group when compared with the thigh group (p < 0.001), indicating a superiority of the lower abdominal area as an aesthetic donor site. Conclusions: The DIEP and SCIP flaps are a versatile option for reconstructing large soft-tissue defects following sarcoma resection. Therefore, flaps harvested from the lower abdomen yield a higher patient satisfaction with the donor site, which is a feature worth considering when planning a reconstructive procedure. Full article

(1) Background: DIEP-based breast reconstruction necessitates wide undermining at the abdominal donor site, creating large wound areas. Flap harvesting is usually conducted using electrosurgical dissection devices. This study sought to compare the clinical outcomes in patients after using the PEAK PlasmaBlade (PPB) versus monopolar electrocautery (MPE). (2) Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 128 patients with DIEP-based breast reconstruction. Patient characteristics and information on the postoperative course were collected and a comparative evaluation was conducted. (3) Results: The MPE group exhibited significantly (p* = 0.0324) higher abdominal drainage volume (351.11 ± 185.96 mL) compared to the PPB group (279.38 ± 183.38 mL). A subgroup analysis demonstrated that PPB significantly reduced postoperative wound fluid in patients with BMI > 30 kg/m² (p* = 0.0284), without prior neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p** = 0.0041), and among non-smokers (p = 0.0046). Furthermore, postoperative pain was significantly (p**** < 0.0001) lower in the PPB cohort. (4) Conclusions: This study confirms the non-inferiority of the PEAK PlasmaBlade to conventional electrocautery for abdominal flap harvesting. The PPB demonstrated advantages, notably reduced drainage volume and lower postoperative pain levels. Recognizing patient subsets that benefit more from the PPB highlights the importance of personalized device selection based on patient characteristics. Full article