Abstract
Introduction Breast conservation therapy (BCT) and oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) are now established modalities of treatment for breast cancer, with proven oncological safety. Traditionally, latissimus dorsi (LD) flaps have been the one-stop solution workhorse when volume replacement is needed. We present our experience with thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) and superior epigastric artery perforator (SEAP) flaps. These flaps allow the preservation of muscle structure and function.
Material and Methods Data were collected prospectively of patients in whom pedicled perforator flaps after BCT were used. A handheld 8-MHz audio Doppler was used to locate the perforators. TDAP flaps were used in four patients, whereas SEAP flaps were used in two patients. Skin paddle sizes ranged from 10 × 3 cm to 21 × 7 cm.
Results TDAP flaps were used in four patients, whereas SEAP flaps were used in two patients All flaps survived. No flap had partial necrosis or fat necrosis. All donor sites were closed primarily and healed uneventfully, and none had a seroma requiring aspiration.
Conclusion TDAP flaps can be selectively employed when the LD muscle function needs to be preserved. SEAP flaps can also be employed as a rare option in case of lower inner quadrant defects. Pedicled perforator flaps are a useful and reliable option for volume replacement OBS in select patients for reconstructing partial mastectomy defects.
The perforator angiosome: A new concept in the design of deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps for breast reconstruction
