The delay procedure in deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The delay procedure in DIEP flap breast reconstruction, in which the reduced-caliber choke vessels play a major role, can provide more well-perfused tissue than a standard DIEP flap. The aim of this study was to review our experience with this technique, to evaluate the indications, and to analyze the surgical outcomes. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted of all consecutive DIEP delay procedures performed between March 2019 and June 2021. Patient demographics, operative details, and complications were registered. Patients had preoperative imaging by MRA to select dominant perforators. The surgical technique involves a two-stage operation. During the first operation the flaps were pedicled on a dominant perforator and a lateral skin bridge extending towards the lateral flank and lumbar fat, and in a second stage the flap is harvested and transferred. RESULTS: A total of 82 extended DIEP delay procedures were performed to reconstruct 154 breasts. The majority were bilateral breast reconstructions (87.8%). The delay procedure was used for 38 primary reconstructions (46.3%) and 32 tertiary reconstructions (39.0%). The primary indication was the need for additional volume (79.3%), followed by extensive abdominal scarring and liposuction. After the first operation seroma was the most frequently observed complication (7.3%). After the second operation three total flap losses (1.9%) were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The delay procedure in DIEP flap breast reconstruction results in the harvest of a good amount of abdominal tissue by adding a preliminary procedure. This technique can convert patients previously considered unsuitable into suitable candidates for abdominal-based breast reconstruction.