The Influence of the Superficial Venous System on DIEP Flap Drainage in Breast Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Autologous tissue has become the gold standard in breast reconstruction. The use of a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap has the advantages of giving a natural appearance to the reconstructed breast and being associated with lower morbidity at the donor site when compared with the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. Venous complications such as venous thrombosis and insufficiency remain the main causes of flap loss and surgical revisions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of superficial venous drainage of the DIEP flap and the addition of a second venous anastomosis have on flap survival. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study collected from a prospective database maintained by our institution. Data was obtained from the medical records of female patients who underwent mastectomy and breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap between March 2010 and March 2017. We evaluated 137 DIEP patients with unilateral breast reconstructions. In 64 (46.7%) the deep venous system was chosen and 73 (53.3%) had an additional superficial vein anastomosed. RESULTS: Out of the 137 patients evaluated, there were 16 (11.67%) cases of revision, 14 (10.21%) were due to venous thrombosis. Twelve cases (8.75%) of flap loss were reported. Reoperation rate was lower in the dual venous drainage group when compared with the single venous drainage group (p = 0.005), as was the rate of flap loss (p = 0.006) and reoperation due to venous thrombosis (p = 0.002). Out of the 125 DIEP flaps, fat necrosis was clinically identified in 7 (5.1%) cases, and the rate was lower in the dual venous drainage system group (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Dual venous drainage of a DIEP flap appears to reduce the rates of venous thrombosis, reoperation, total flap loss, and fat necrosis.

Complications after breast reconstruction with alloplastic material in breast cancer patients submitted or not to post mastectomy radiotherapy.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Breast reconstruction following mastectomy is a relevant element of breast cancer treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of radiotherapy (RT) on local complications in patients with breast cancer that had undergone breast reconstruction with alloplastic material. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of breast cancer patients submitted to mastectomy and breast reconstruction from 2009 to 2013. Clinical and treatment variables were correlated with early and late complications. RESULTS: 251 patients were included; mean age was 49.7 (25 to 78) years. Reconstruction was immediate in 94% of the patients, with 88% performed with a temporary tissue expander. Postoperative radiotherapy (RT) was delivered to 167 patients (66.5%). Early complications were present in 26.3% of the patients. Irradiated patients presented 5.4% incidence of late complications versus 2.4% for non-irradiated patients (p = 0.327). Diabetes (OR = 3.41 95% CI: 1.23-9.45, p = 0.018) and high body mass index (BMI) (OR = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.60-4.37, p < 0.0001) were the main risk factors. The overall incidence of late complications was 4.4%, with predominance of severe capsular contracture (8/11). Arterial hypertension (OR = 4.78; 95% CI: 1.97-11.63, p = 0.001), BMI (OR = 0.170; 95% CI: 0.048-0.607, p = 0.006) and implant placement (OR = 3.55; 95% CI: 1.26-9.99, p = 0.016) were related to late complications. CONCLUSIONS: The overall rate of complications was low in this population. Radiotherapy delivery translated into a higher but not statistically significant risk of late complications when compared with the non-irradiated patients. Already well-known clinical risk factors for complications after breast reconstruction were identified.

Impact of Fat Graft Thickness and Harvesting Technique on Adipocyte Viability in a New Porcine Experimental Model: An Immunohistochemical Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Autologous fat grafting (AFG) has been employed in surgical practice as a filling method. However, controversies remain on the specifics of this technique. So far, few relevant experimental large animal studies have objectively assessed factors related to AFG integration. OBJECTIVES: This study utilized an experimental, medium-sized animal model to compare the feasibility of AFG collected employing 2 different techniques with instruments of distinct thicknesses. METHODS: Twenty minipigs (Sus scropha domesticus) were subjected to AFG harvesting via en bloc resection utilizing 3- (Group I) and 5-mm-diameter (Group II) round punch blades (PBs) and liposuction (LS) with 3- (Group III) and 5-mm-diameter cannulas (Group IV). Both samples were grafted intramuscularly (biceps femoralis). Hematoxylin and eosin staining was employed to identify intact adipocytes, fat necrosis, fibrosis, inflammation, and oil cysts. Immunohistochemical staining (perilipin-A, tumor necrosis factor alfa, and cluster of differentiation number 31) was utilized to quantify the feasibility of adipocytes, tissue necrosis, and neoangiogenesis, respectively. RESULTS: Hematoxylin and eosin analysis showed that fat necrosis and histiocyte presence were significantly lower in the AFG harvested utilizing a PB than in LS. For perilipin-A, a statistical difference was observed between subgroups I and III (P = 0.001) and I and IV (P = 0.004). Instrument diameter had no effect on graft integration in comparisons between groups II and III (P = 0.059) and II and IV (P = 0.132). CONCLUSIONS: In this experimental study, fat collected utilizing a PB demonstrated higher adipocyte viability than fat collected with LS. The diameter of the collection instruments, whether PB or LS, had no effect on graft integration.

Serratus anterior muscle flap as a salvage procedure in exposed implant-based breast reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) is the most common approach to reconstruct mastectomy deffects. Infection following breast reconstruction can be devastating and lead to loss of the reconstruction due to the need of implant removal. The serratus anterior muscle flap is widely used during breast reconstruction to provide coverage of the implant/expander. METHODS: We present the application of the serratus anterior muscle flap to treat implant exposure after breast reconstruction. CASES PRESENTATION: Two patients who experienced implant exposure after breast reconstruction were successfully treated with partial capsulectomy, pocket irrigation and implant coverage with a serratus anterior muscle flap. RESULTS: No post operative complications have been observed while implant retention was achieved in both cases. CONCLUSIONS: The serratus anterior muscle flap is an option to treat implant exposure following breast reconstruction in selected cases. This flap could be used to prevent implant exposure in critical cases.

Influence of vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) flap positioning on the response to breast cancer-related lymphedema treatment. / Influência do posicionamento do retalho linfonodal vascularizado na resposta ao tratamento cirúrgico do linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the initial therapeutic experience of transplantation of vascularized lymph nodes in patients with lymphedema of the upper limbs secondary to the treatment of breast cancer, and to verify if the positioning of the transplant influences the surgical result. METHODS: we conducted a prospective, comparative test of two therapeutic modalities, with 24 patients with lymphedema of the upper limb after breast cancer treatment, classified as grades 2 and 3, according to the International Lymphedema Society. The two types of procedures performed were: 1) total breast reconstruction with - deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap associated with lymph node flap, in patients with no previous breast reconstruction or loss of previous reconstruction (axillary positioning); 2) isolated inguinal lymph node flap performed in patients with completed breast reconstruction or without the desire to perform the breast reconstruction (wrist positioning). RESULTS: the reduction percentage of the affected limb volume was 20.1% (p=0.0370). The number of infectious episodes (cellulites) also decreased significantly, from 41% in the preoperative period to 12.5% in the postoperative one (p=0.004). There were no differences between the proximal and distal groups. CONCLUSION: the transplantation of lymph nodes positively affected the postoperative evolution of patients with lymphedema secondary to breast cancer. We observed no differences in relation to flap positioning.

OBJETIVO: analisar a experiência terapêutica inicial do transplante de linfonodos vascularizados em pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membros superiores secundário ao tratamento do câncer de mama e verificar se o posicionamento do transplante influencia o resultado cirúrgico. MÉTODOS: ensaio prospectivo, comparativo, de duas modalidades terapêuticas em 24 pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membro superior após tratamento de câncer mamário, classificados como graus 2 e 3, segundo a Sociedade Internacional de Linfedema. Os dois tipos de procedimentos realizados foram: 1) reconstrução total da mama com retalho de perfurante da artéria epigástrica inferior (DIEP- deep inferior epigastric perforator flap) associado ao retalho linfonodal, em pacientes sem reconstrução mamária prévia ou com histórico de perda da reconstrução (posicionamento axilar); 2) retalho linfonodal inguinal isolado foi realizado em pacientes com reconstrução mamária finalizada ou sem o desejo de realizar a reconstrução da mama (posicionamento no punho). RESULTADOS: a porcentagem de redução do volume do membro afetado foi de 20,1% (p=0,0370). O número de episódios infecciosos (celulites) também sofreu redução significativa, de 41% no período pré-operatório para 12,5% no pós-operatório (p=0,004). Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos proximal e distal. CONCLUSÃO: o transplante de linfonodos afetou positivamente a evolução pós-operatória de pacientes portadoras de linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama. Não foram observadas diferenças em relação ao posicionamento do retalho.

Influência do posicionamento do retalho linfonodal vascularizado na resposta ao tratamento cirúrgico do linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama / Influence of vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) flap positioning on the response to breast cancer-related lymphedema treatment

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a experiência terapêutica inicial do transplante de linfonodos vascularizados em pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membros superiores secundário ao tratamento do câncer de mama e verificar se o posicionamento do transplante influencia o resultado cirúrgico. Métodos: ensaio prospectivo, comparativo, de duas modalidades terapêuticas em 24 pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membro superior após tratamento de câncer mamário, classificados como graus 2 e 3, segundo a Sociedade Internacional de Linfedema. Os dois tipos de procedimentos realizados foram: 1) reconstrução total da mama com retalho de perfurante da artéria epigástrica inferior (DIEP- deep inferior epigastric perforator flap) associado ao retalho linfonodal, em pacientes sem reconstrução mamária prévia ou com histórico de perda da reconstrução (posicionamento axilar); 2) retalho linfonodal inguinal isolado foi realizado em pacientes com reconstrução mamária finalizada ou sem o desejo de realizar a reconstrução da mama (posicionamento no punho). Resultados: a porcentagem de redução do volume do membro afetado foi de 20,1% (p=0,0370). O número de episódios infecciosos (celulites) também sofreu redução significativa, de 41% no período pré-operatório para 12,5% no pós-operatório (p=0,004). Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos proximal e distal. Conclusão: o transplante de linfonodos afetou positivamente a evolução pós-operatória de pacientes portadoras de linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama. Não foram observadas diferenças em relação ao posicionamento do retalho.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the initial therapeutic experience of transplantation of vascularized lymph nodes in patients with lymphedema of the upper limbs secondary to the treatment of breast cancer, and to verify if the positioning of the transplant influences the surgical result. Methods: we conducted a prospective, comparative test of two therapeutic modalities, with 24 patients with lymphedema of the upper limb after breast cancer treatment, classified as grades 2 and 3, according to the International Lymphedema Society. The two types of procedures performed were: 1) total breast reconstruction with - deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap associated with lymph node flap, in patients with no previous breast reconstruction or loss of previous reconstruction (axillary positioning); 2) isolated inguinal lymph node flap performed in patients with completed breast reconstruction or without the desire to perform the breast reconstruction (wrist positioning). Results: the reduction percentage of the affected limb volume was 20.1% (p=0.0370). The number of infectious episodes (cellulites) also decreased significantly, from 41% in the preoperative period to 12.5% in the postoperative one (p=0.004). There were no differences between the proximal and distal groups. Conclusion: the transplantation of lymph nodes positively affected the postoperative evolution of patients with lymphedema secondary to breast cancer. We observed no differences in relation to flap positioning.

Influence of advanced age on postoperative outcomes and total loss following breast reconstruction: a critical assessment of 560 cases.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the role of age in the risk of postoperative complications in patients submitted to unilateral breast reconstruction after mastectomy, with emphasis on total reconstruction loss. METHODS: we conducted a retrospective study of patients submitted to breast reconstruction, whose variables included: oncological and reconstruction data, postoperative complications, including loss of reconstruction and complications of surgical wound. We divided the patients into two groups, according to the classification of the Brazilian National Elderly Policy and the Statute of the Elderly: young (age <60 years) and elderly (60 years or more). We also grouped them according to the World Health Organization classification: young people (age <44 years), middle age (45-59 years); elderly (age 60-89 years) and extreme advanced age (90 years or older). We applied the surgical risk classification of the American Society of Anesthesiologists to investigate the role of the preoperative physical state as a possible predictor of complications. RESULTS: of the 560 patients operated on, 94 (16.8%) were 60 years of age or older. We observed a local complication rate of 49.8%, the majority being self-limited. The incidences of necrosis, infection and dehiscence were 15.5%, 10.9% and 9.3%, respectively. Patients older than 60 years presented a chance of complication 1.606 times greater than the younger ones. Forty-five (8%) patients had loss of the reconstruction; there was no statistically significant difference in the mean age of the patients who presented this result or not (p=0.321). CONCLUSION: in selected patients, breast reconstruction can be considered safe; most documented complications were limited and could be treated conservatively.

Reconstruction of acquired ischiatic and perineal defects: an anatomical and clinical comparison between gluteal thigh and inferior gluteal perforator flaps.

BACKGROUND: Flap coverage is the gold standard in treating pressure sores, and due to the high recurrence rate, the possibility of multiple surgical procedures should be considered during flap selection. The gluteal thigh (GT) flap has become a workhorse for ischiatic pressure sore treatment at our hospital. Follow-up revealed a group of patients presenting recurrence of the pressure sore that needed a second flap. The inferior gluteal artery perforator (IGAP) flap was chosen in this series. The positive experience with both flaps raised the question of which flap should be the first option for the treatment of ischiatic and perineal pressure sores. METHODS: IGAP and GT flaps were dissected in 21 fresh human cadavers to allow comparison of anatomical features. In a series of 60 patients, the authors used both the gluteal thigh and the IGAP flap to cover 76 ischiatic and perineal ulcers. RESULTS: The IGAP flap was found to be wider and thicker than the gluteal thigh, but presented a shorter pedicle. All flaps healed uneventfully. Recurrent ulcers were treated successfully with both flaps. CONCLUSIONS: Both flaps are suitable for coverage ischiatic and perineal sores. Due to its anatomical features, the IGAP flap should be considered the first choice of treatment for ischiatic ulcers. The gluteal thigh flap should be used in the recurrent sores.Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

Influence of advanced age on postoperative outcomes and total loss following breast reconstruction: a critical assessment of 560 cases / Influência da idade avançada sobre a evolução pós-operatória e a perda total da reconstrução mamária: análise crítica de 560 reconstruções

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the role of age in the risk of postoperative complications in patients submitted to unilateral breast reconstruction after mastectomy, with emphasis on total reconstruction loss. Methods: we conducted a retrospective study of patients submitted to breast reconstruction, whose variables included: oncological and reconstruction data, postoperative complications, including loss of reconstruction and complications of surgical wound. We divided the patients into two groups, according to the classification of the Brazilian National Elderly Policy and the Statute of the Elderly: young (age <60 years) and elderly (60 years or more). We also grouped them according to the World Health Organization classification: young people (age <44 years), middle age (45-59 years); elderly (age 60-89 years) and extreme advanced age (90 years or older). We applied the surgical risk classification of the American Society of Anesthesiologists to investigate the role of the preoperative physical state as a possible predictor of complications. Results: of the 560 patients operated on, 94 (16.8%) were 60 years of age or older. We observed a local complication rate of 49.8%, the majority being self-limited. The incidences of necrosis, infection and dehiscence were 15.5%, 10.9% and 9.3%, respectively. Patients older than 60 years presented a chance of complication 1.606 times greater than the younger ones. Forty-five (8%) patients had loss of the reconstruction; there was no statistically significant difference in the mean age of the patients who presented this result or not (p=0.321). Conclusion: in selected patients, breast reconstruction can be considered safe; most documented complications were limited and could be treated conservatively.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar o papel da idade no risco de complicações pós-operatórias de pacientes submetidas à reconstrução mamária unilateral pós-mastectomia, com ênfase na perda total da reconstrução. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo de pacientes submetidas à reconstrução mamária, cujas variáveis incluídas foram: dados oncológicos e da técnica de reconstrução, complicações pós-operatórias, incluindo perda da reconstrução e complicações da ferida operatória. As pacientes foram divididas de acordo com a classificação da Política Nacional do Idoso e Estatuto do Idoso em dois grupos: jovens (idade <60 anos) e idosas (60 anos ou mais). Também foram agrupadas de acordo com a classificação da Organização Mundial da Saúde: jovens (idade <44 anos); meia-idade (idade 45-59 anos); idosas (idade 60-89 anos) e velhice extrema (90 anos ou mais). A classificação do risco cirúrgico da Sociedade Americana de Anestesiologistas foi aplicada para investigar o papel do estado físico pré-operatório como possível preditor de complicações. Resultados: das 560 pacientes operadas, 94 (16,8%) apresentavam 60 anos ou mais. Observou-se taxa de complicações locais de 49,8%, a maioria, limitadas. As incidências de necrose, infecção e deiscência foram de 15,5%, 10,9% e 9,3%, respectivamente. Pacientes com 60 anos ou mais apresentaram chance de complicação 1,606 vezes maior do que as jovens. Quarenta e cinco (8%) pacientes apresentaram perda da reconstrução e não houve diferença estatisticamente significante na média de idade das pacientes que apresentaram ou não esse desfecho (p=0,321). Conclusão: em pacientes selecionadas, a reconstrução mamária pode ser considerada segura; a maioria das complicações documentadas foi limitada e pode ser tratada conservadoramente.

The use of contralateral free extended latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap for a tertiary failed breast reconstruction: Is it still an option?

BACKGROUND: Unsuccessful breast reconstruction management represents a complex challenge for the plastic surgeon. Although these events rarely occur, many patients are not suitable candidates for conventional flaps, because of either previous donor-site surgery or lack of sufficient tissue. METHODS: In this study, a contralateral free latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap (CL-LDMF) was planned for correction of major lesions in the anterior chest wall. Twelve patients underwent secondary/tertiary breast reconstruction with CL-LDMF with a customized shape (horizontal, oblique, or "fleur-de-lis") depending on the amount of tissue necessary. The technique was indicated in patients with large thoracic defects who lacked a donor site and had undergone previous unsuccessful pedicled LDMF. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 42.5 months (range: 18-72 months). Five local complications occurred in four of the 12 patients. Dorsal dehiscence was observed in one, local wound infection in one, small partial CL-LDMF necrosis in one, and dorsal seroma in one patient. All cases of complications were limited and treated with a conservative approach except for one implant extrusion 4 months after reconstruction. No total flap loss was reported. All patients achieved a satisfactory thoracic and breast reconstruction. CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrate that free CL-LDMF is a reliable technique and should be considered in selected cases of tertiary reconstructions. The majority of complications were immediate, minor, and comparable to other reconstructive techniques. We believe that in selected patients, especially those who do not have available donor-site areas, free CL-LDMF is advantageous and should be part of the armamentarium of all plastic surgeons who deal with tertiary breast reconstructions.

Avaliação do índice de infecção de implantes mamários utilizados na reconstrução de mama do Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo / Evaluation of the infection rate of implants used for breast reconstruction at the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo

INTRODUÇÃO: A utilização de implante mamário é a forma de reconstrução de mama mais comumente realizada. Apesar de suas vantagens, a infecção do implante, seja este expansor tecidual ou prótese mamária, pode ser um problema significativo, incluindo a necessidade de sua retirada. O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar o índice de infecção de implantes mamários utilizados na reconstrução de mama de pacientes operadas no Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), bem como sua correlação com aspectos clínicos, oncológicos e cirúrgicos. PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 120 pacientes submetidas à reconstrução mamária com implante mamário no ICESP, no período de fevereiro de 2009 a março de 2010. RESULTADOS: O índice de infecção foi de 24,3% e esteve relacionado estatisticamente a reconstrução imediata (88,9%), diabetes mellitus (25%), IMC acima de 30 (52,8%), HAS (52,8%) e sofrimento de pele da mastectomia (27,8%). Nota-se que 44% dos implantes infectados foram retirados, sendo a maioria expansores colocados em reconstrução imediata. CONCLUSÕES: A reconstrução mamária com implante é uma forma segura e eficaz de tratamento. Deve-se, entretanto, estar atento aos subgrupos de pacientes mais propensas ao desenvolvimento de infecção, para otimizar a sua prevenção e atentar ao seu tratamento precoce.

INTRODUCTION: Placement of breast implants is the most commonly used form of breast reconstruction. Despite its advantages, infection of the implant, either in the tissue expander or mammary prosthesis, can be a significant problem, including the need to remove it. The objective of this work is to evaluate the infection rate of breast implants used for breast reconstruction in patients submitted to surgery at the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo (ICESP), as well as its correlation with clinical, oncological, and surgical factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study on 120 patients submitted to breast reconstruction with breast implants at the ICESP from February 2009 to March 2010. RESULTS: The infection rate (24.3%) was statistically related to immediate reconstruction (88.9%), diabetes mellitus (25%), body mass index >30 (52.8%), systemic arterial hypertension (52.8%), and skin injury due to mastectomy (27.8%). Of the infected implants, 44% were removed, most of which were expanders placed during immediate reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Breast reconstruction with implants is the safest and most effective form of treatment. However, consideration should be given to patients who are prone to the development of infection, in order to optimize its prevention and attempt to perform its treatment at an early stage.

Immediate nipple-areola-sparing mastectomy reconstruction: An update on oncological and reconstruction techniques.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is a safe technique in patients who are candidates for conservation breast surgery. However, there is worry concerning its oncological safety and surgical outcome in terms of postoperative complications. The authors reviewed the literature to evaluate the oncological safety, patient selection, surgical techniques, and also to identify the factors influencing postoperative outcome and complication rates. Patient selection and safety related to NSM are based on oncological and anatomical parameters. Among the main criteria, the oncological aspects include the clinical stage of breast cancer, tumor characteristics and location including small, peripherally located tumors, without multicentricity, or for prophylactic mastectomy. Surgical success depends on coordinated planning with the oncological surgeon and careful preoperative and intraoperative management. In general, the NSM reconstruction is related to autologous and alloplastic techniques and sometimes include contra-lateral breast surgery. Choice of reconstructive technique following NSM requires accurate consideration of various patient related factors, including: breast volume, degree of ptosis, areola size, clinical factors, and surgeon's experience. In addition, tumor related factors include dimension, location and proximity to the nipple-areola complex. Regardless of the fact that there is no unanimity concerning the appropriate technique, the criteria are determined by the surgeon's experience and the anatomical aspects of the breast. The positive aspects of the technique utilized should include low interference with the oncological treatment, reproducibility, and long-term results. Selected patients can have safe outcomes and therefore this may be a feasible option for early breast cancer management. However, available data demonstrates that NSM can be safely performed for breast cancer treatment in selected cases. Additional studies and longer follow-up are necessary to define consistent selection criteria for NSM.

Management of giant inferior triangle lumbar hernia (Petit's triangle hernia): A rare complication following delayed breast reconstruction with extended latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap.

INTRODUCTION: Lumbar triangle hernia after breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap (LDMF) is a very rare complication and few cases were previously described. Muscle mobilization and iatrogenic fascia defect are related etiologic factors. PRESENTATION OF CASE: The authors describe a rare case of lumbar hernia in a 58-year-old woman who underwent delayed left breast reconstruction with LDMF. Two months after surgery, a progressive symptomatic lower left lumbar bulge was observed. The CT scan confirmed the diagnosis and delineated an 18cm lumbar defect filled with lower and large bowel. At operation, the defect was exposed and the hernia sac reduced. In order to obtain stability, the remained local muscle and fascia flaps were mobilized into the defect. Additional strength was achieved with a two-layer closure of prosthetic mesh (intra/extra peritoneal). The patient is currently in the 10th postoperative year of hernia repair and satisfactory lumbar wall contour was achieved. Neither the recurrence of lumbar hernia nor symptoms compliance was noted. DISCUSSION: Lumbar hernia is an uncommon complication of LDMF harvest. Although it is a rare disease, general and plastic surgeons must be on alert to avoid complications and misdiagnosis. Seroma differential diagnosis is important in order to avoid bowel perforation due to aspiration. Defect reconstruction is necessary with a muscular and fascia flaps mobilization and synthetic mesh in order to obtain a stable repair. CONCLUSION: The knowledge of this rare post-operative complication following delayed breast reconstruction is crucial to its surgical management. Early surgical intervention is warranted in order to avoid severe complications.

Internal mammary perforator vessels as recipient site for microsurgical breast reconstruction: a comparative histomorphometric analysis and incidence of degenerative vascular changes.

BACKGROUND: In microsurgical breast reconstruction, an adequate selection of recipient vessels is crucial for a successful outcome. Although the internal mammary (IM) vessels offer an attractive option, the internal mammary perforator (IMP) vessels are becoming a reliable alternative. The purpose of this study is to investigate the external diameters, lumen area, and atherosclerotic lesions changes of the IMP, IM, and deep inferior epigastric (DIE) vessels through quantitative and qualitative histomorphometric analysis. METHODS: Ninety-six vessels of bilateral IM, IMP, and DIE vessels from 16 fresh female cadavers were evaluated. Mean age was 54.06 ± 5.7 years. External diameters, lumen area, and degenerative changes of the tunica intimae and media were analyzed by qualitative histomorphometric analysis. RESULTS: Seventy-one vessels (20 IM, 31 IMP, and 20 DIE vessels) were included in the final histological analysis. A statistically lower external diameters and lumen area were presented by the IMP. The DIE vessels showed a lower incidence (10%) of moderate and severe intimal layer degenerative changes (P = 0.0589). The IMP and DIE vessels showed a lower incidence (9.4 and 25%, respectively) of major media layer degenerative changes (P = 0.0001). No major arterial degenerative lesions were observed in the IMP arteries. CONCLUSION: Although the IMP external diameters and lumen area were lower than the IM, the results of this study indicated that the tunica media layer in the IMP is less damaged than the other recipient vessels. The results of the comparative histological study permitted to describe additional advantages and disadvantages of using IMP as a recipient vessel for free flap breast reconstruction.

Current approaches to managing partial breast defects: the role of conservative breast surgery reconstruction.

Recently breast surgeons can offer patients a variety of treatment and reconstructive alternatives when early breast cancer is diagnosed. In fact, advances in reconstructive techniques have reduced surgical trauma and thus are capable of preserving the breast form as well as quality of life. Depending on a variety of different factors, including stage, tumor size, location, hystological type, but also breast volume, a reconstructive schedule is established. The main techniques are related to volume displacement or replacement procedures including local flaps, latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap and reduction mammaplasty/ masthopexy. Regardless of the fact that there are is no consensus over the best approach, the criteria are determined by the surgeon's experience and the size of the defect in relation to the size of the remaining breast. Aim of every reconstructive procedure decision should be breast preservation and an adequate aesthetic outcome. Additionally, reconstruction permits wider excision of the tumor, with a superior mean volume of the specimen and potentially reducing the incidence of margin involvement. The objective of this review is to give an overview of reconstructive modalities for conservative breast surgery, based not only on traditional but also on the latest studies regarding the outcome of the main techniques employed. Surgical approaches, as well as conservative treatment options, such as lumpectomy and quadrantectomy, are further discussed. Surgical planning should include the patients' preferences, while chiefly addressing individual reconstructive requirements, and enabling each patient to receive an individual "custom-made" reconstruction.

The liposuction-induced effects on adiponectin and selected cytokines are not affected by exercise training in women.

It has been suggested that the abrupt liposuction-induced decrease in adipose tissue could affect adipokine secretion pattern. We hypothesized that exercise training could positively impact adipokine metabolism following liposuction. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of liposuction on inflammation-related adipokines in women who were either exercise-trained or remained sedentary after surgery. Thirty-six healthy normal-weight women underwent an abdominal liposuction and two months after surgery were randomly allocated into two groups: trained (TR, n = 18, four-month exercise program) and nontrained (NT, n = 18). Inflammation-related adipokine serum levels (TNF- α , IL-6, IL-10, and adiponectin) and abdominal and thigh subcutaneous adipose tissue (scAT) mRNA levels were assessed before (PRE) and six months after surgery (POST6). TNF- α , IL-6, and IL-10 serum levels were unchanged in both groups. In contrast, TNF- α , IL-6, and IL-10 mRNA levels in scAT were increased, whereas adiponectin scAT mRNA and serum levels were decreased at POST6 (P < 0.05, main effect for time). No changes were observed in mRNA levels of MCP-1, CD14, and CD68 in any of the groups. In conclusion, liposuction downregulates adiponectin scAT gene expression and serum levels and upregulates scAT gene expression of inflammation-related genes six months after surgery in normal-weight women, irrespective of exercise training.

Current aspects of therapeutic reduction mammaplasty for immediate early breast cancer management: An update.

Breast-conservation surgery (BCS) is established as a safe surgical treatment for most patients with early breast cancer. Recently, advances in oncoplastic techniques are capable of preserving the breast form and quality of life. Although most BCS defects can be managed with primary closure, the aesthetic outcome may be unpredictable. Among technical options, therapeutic reduction mammaplasty (TRM) remains a useful procedure since the BCS defect can be repaired and the preoperative appearance can be improved, resulting in more proportional breasts. As a consequence of rich breast tissue vascularization, the greater part of reduction techniques have based their planning on preserving the pedicle of the nipple-areola complex after tumor removal. Reliable circulation and improvement of a conical shape to the breast are commonly described in TRM reconstructions. With an immediate approach, the surgical process is smooth since both procedures can be carried out in one operative setting. Additionally, it permits wider excision of the tumor, with a superior mean volume of the specimen and potentially reduces the incidence of margin involvement. Regardless of the fact that there is no consensus concerning the best TRM technique, the criteria is determined by the surgeon's experience, the extent/location of glandular tissue resection and the size of the defect in relation to the size of the remaining breast. The main advantages of the technique utilized should include reproducibility, low interference with the oncological treatment and long-term results. The success of the procedure depends on patient selection, coordinated planning and careful intra-operative management.

Immediate chest wall reconstruction during pregnancy: surgical management after extended surgical resection due to primary sarcoma of the breast.

BACKGROUND: Breast sarcoma during pregnancy is an extremely rare event and represents a complex problem because of a more advanced stage at presentation. METHOD: This report presents the first case of a 24-year-old woman with a gestational age of 20 weeks with a fast growing tumour in her left breast (29 × 19 × 15 cm) and infiltrating the skin/pectoralis muscles. Radical mastectomy was performed with a gestational age of 22 weeks and a different design was planned for the latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap (LDMF) with primary closure in the V-Y pattern. RESULT: Satisfactory chest wall coverage and contour were achieved. Final histopathological findings allowed a diagnosis of undifferentiated sarcoma. With a gestational age of 37 weeks, a healthy infant was delivered by means of a caesarean section. The patient is currently in the second postoperative year and no recurrence has been observed. CONCLUSION: Management of a large breast sarcoma in a pregnant patient presents unique challenges in consideration of the potential risks to the foetus and the possible maternal benefit. The results of this study demonstrate that the VY-LDMF is a reliable technique and should be considered in cases of immediate large thoracic wound reconstruction.

Clinical outcomes following nipple-areola-sparing mastectomy with immediate implant-based breast reconstruction: a 12-year experience with an analysis of patient and breast-related factors for complications.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is increasingly offered to women for therapeutic and prophylactic indications. Although, clinical series have been described, there are few studies describing risk factors for complications. The objective of this study is to evaluate the incidence of complications in a series of consecutive patients submitted to NSM and differences between clinical risk factors, breast volume, and different incision types. In a cohort-designed study, 158 reconstructed patients (invasive/in situ cancer and high risk for cancer) were stratified into groups based on different types of incision used (hemi-periareolar, double-circle periareolar, and Wise-pattern). They were matched for age, body mass index, associated clinical diseases, smoking, and weight of specimen. Also included were patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy and postoperative radiotherapy. Mean follow-up was 65.6 months. In 106 (67 %) patients, NSM was performed for breast cancer treatment and in 52 (32.9 %) for cancer prophylaxis. Thirty-nine (24.6 %) patients were submitted to hemi-periareolar technique, 67 (42.4 %) to double-circle periareolar incision, and 52 (33 %) to Wise-pattern incision. The reconstruction was performed with tissue expander and implant-expander. Local recurrence rate was 3.7 % and the incidence of distant metastases was 1.8 %. Obese patients and higher weight of specimen had a higher risk for complications. After adjusting risk factors (BMI, weight of specimen), the complications were higher for patients submitted to hemi-periareolar and Wise-pattern incisions. This follow-up survey demonstrates that NSM facilitates optimal breast reconstruction by preserving the majority of the breast skin. Selected patients can have safe outcomes and therefore this may be a feasible option for breast cancer management. Success depends on coordinated planning with the oncologic surgeon and careful preoperative and intraoperative management. Surgical risk factors include incision type, obesity, and weight of breast specimen.