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Xu J, Zhu XM, Ng KC, Alhefzi MM, Avram R, Coroneos CJ. Co-surgeon versus Single-surgeon Outcomes in Free Tissue Breast Reconstruction: A Meta-analysis. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024. [PMID: 38267008 DOI: 10.1055/a-2253-6099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autologous breast reconstruction offers superior long-term patient reported outcomes compared with implant-based reconstruction. Universal adoption of free tissue transfer has been hindered by procedural complexity and long operative time with microsurgery. In many specialties, co-surgeon (CS) approaches are reported to decrease operative time while improving surgical outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizes the available literature to evaluate the potential benefit of a CS approach in autologous free tissue breast reconstruction versus single-surgeon (SS). METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE from inception to December 2022. Published reports comparing CS to SS approaches in uni- and bilateral autologous breast reconstruction were identified. Primary outcomes included operative time, postoperative outcomes, processes of care, and financial impact. Risk of bias was assessed and outcomes were characterized with effect sizes. RESULTS Eight retrospective studies reporting on 9,425 patients were included. Compared with SS, CS approach was associated with a significantly shorter operative time (SMD -0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.01 to -0.29, p < 0.001), with the largest effect size in bilateral reconstructions (standardized mean difference [SMD] -1.02, 95% CI -1.37 to -0.67, p < 0.00001). CS was also associated with a significant decrease in length of hospitalization (SMD -0.39, 95% CI -0.71 to -0.07, p = 0.02). Odds of flap failure or surgical complications including surgical site infection, hematoma, fat necrosis, and reexploration were not significantly different. CONCLUSION CS free tissue breast reconstruction significantly shortens operative time and length of hospitalization compared with SS approaches without compromising postoperative outcomes. Further research should model processes and financial viability of its adoption in a variety of health care models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Xu
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xi Ming Zhu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kimberly C Ng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ronen Avram
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher J Coroneos
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Dickey RM, Teotia SS, Haddock NT. How to Start a Microsurgery Practice: Success and Sustainability in Academic Practice. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2024; 12:e5571. [PMID: 38317654 PMCID: PMC10843431 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Starting an academic microsurgery practice is a daunting task for plastic surgery graduates. Despite this, academic practice provides many advantages as a starting point for a career. Microsurgical faculty can make use of several unique benefits within an academic center. These include vast resources of clinical and basic science departments, communications and public affairs divisions, and quality improvement teams. Building a multi-disciplinary microsurgery practice with specific focus will jumpstart research questions and outcome data. Using residents and students to their full potential is both rewarding and efficient as a microsurgeon. Finally, peer faculty in an academic environment provide a stimulating resource for growth and assistance when needed. This special topic provides insight into starting a microsurgery practice for any resident considering a career in academics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M. Dickey
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - Sumeet S. Teotia
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - Nicholas T. Haddock
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
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Wang F, Rothchild E, Lu YH, Ricci JA. Language Disparity Predicts Poor Patient-Reported Outcome and Follow-Up in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. J Reconstr Microsurg 2023; 39:681-694. [PMID: 36809784 DOI: 10.1055/a-2040-1750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) have starkly different health care experiences compared with their English-proficient counterparts. The authors aim to examine the link between LEP and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing microsurgical breast reconstruction. METHODS A retrospective review of all patients who underwent abdominal-based microsurgical breast reconstruction at our institution between 2009 and 2019 was performed. Variables collected included patient demographics, language status, interpreter usage, perioperative complications, follow-up visits, and self-reported outcomes (Breast-Q). Pearson's χ 2 test, Student's t-test, odds ratio analysis, and regression modeling were used for analysis. RESULTS A total of 405 patients were included. LEP patients comprised 22.22% of the overall cohort with 80% of LEP patients utilizing interpreter services. LEP patients reported significantly lower satisfaction with an abdominal appearance at the 6-month follow-up and lower physical and sexual well-being scores at the 1-year follow-up (p = 0.05, 0.02, 0.01, respectively). Non-LEP patients had significantly longer operative times (539.6 vs. 499.3 minutes, p = 0.024), were more likely to have postoperative donor site revisions (p = 0.05), and more likely to receive preoperative neuraxial anesthesia (p = 0.01). After adjusting for confounders, LEP stats was associated with 0.93 fewer follow-up visits (p = 0.02). Interestingly, compared with LEP patients who did not receive interpreter services, LEP patients who did had 1.98 more follow-up visits (p = 0.02). There were no significant differences in emergency room visits or complications between the cohorts. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that language disparities exist within microsurgical breast reconstruction and underscore the importance of effective, language-conscious communication between surgeon and patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- The Division of Plastic Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Evan Rothchild
- The Division of Plastic Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Yi-Hsueh Lu
- The Division of Plastic Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Joseph A Ricci
- The Division of Plastic Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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Chen J, Varagur K, Xun H, Wallam S, Karius A, Ospino R, Ji J, Sanka SA, Daines J, Skladman R, Aliu O, Sacks JM. Predictors and Consequences of Intraoperative Anastomotic Failure in DIEP Flaps. J Reconstr Microsurg 2023; 39:549-558. [PMID: 36564049 DOI: 10.1055/a-2003-7890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful intraoperative microvascular anastomoses are essential for deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap survival. This study identifies factors associated with anastomotic failure during DIEP flap reconstruction and analyzes the impact of these anastomotic failures on postoperative patient outcomes and surgical costs. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted of patients undergoing DIEP flap reconstruction at two high-volume tertiary care centers from January 2017 to December 2020. Patient demographics, intraoperative management, anastomotic technique, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Data were analyzed using Student's t-tests, Chi-square analysis, and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS Of the 270 patients included in our study (mean age 52, majority Caucasian [74.5%]), intraoperative anastomotic failure occurred in 26 (9.6%) patients. Increased number of circulating nurses increased risk of anastomotic failure (odds ratio [OR] 1.02, 95% confidence Interval [CI] 1.00-1.03, p <0.05). Presence of a junior resident also increased risk of anastomotic failure (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.01-6.34, p <0.05). Increased surgeon years in practice was associated with decreased failures (OR 0.12, CI 0.02-0.60, p <0.05). Intraoperative anastomotic failure increased the odds of postoperative hematoma (OR 8.85, CI 1.35-59.1, p <0.05) and was associated with longer operating room times (bilateral DIEP: 2.25 hours longer, p <0.05), longer hospital stays (2.2 days longer, p <0.05), and higher total operating room cost ($28,529.50 vs. $37,272.80, p <0.05). CONCLUSION Intraoperative anastomotic failures during DIEP flap reconstruction are associated with longer, more expensive cases and increased rates of postoperative complications. Presence of increased numbers of circulators and junior residents was associated with increased risk of anastomotic failure. Future research is necessary to develop practice guidelines for optimizing patient and surgical factors for intraoperative anastomotic success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonlin Chen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kaamya Varagur
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Helen Xun
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sara Wallam
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Alexander Karius
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rafael Ospino
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jenny Ji
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sai Anusha Sanka
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. St. Louis, Missouri
| | - John Daines
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Rachel Skladman
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Oluseyi Aliu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Justin M Sacks
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. St. Louis, Missouri
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Todd AR, Genereux O, Schrag C, Hatchell A, Matthews J. Improved Operative Efficiency and Surgical Times in Autologous Breast Reconstruction: A 15-year Single-center Retrospective Review. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2023; 11:e5231. [PMID: 38152707 PMCID: PMC10752470 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Autologous breast reconstruction using a free deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is a complex procedure that requires a dedicated approach to achieve operative efficiency. We analyzed data for DIEP flaps at a single center over 15 years to identify factors contributing to operative efficiency. Methods A single-center, retrospective cohort analysis was performed of consecutive patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction using DIEP free flaps between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2019. Data were abstracted a priori from electronic medical records. Analysis was conducted by a medical statistician. Results Analysis of 416 unilateral and 320 bilateral cases (1056 flaps) demonstrated reduction in operative times from 2005 to 2019 (11.7-8.2 hours for bilateral and 8.4-6.2 hours for unilateral, P < 0.000). On regression analysis, factors significantly correlating with reduced operative times include the use of venous couplers (P < 0.000), and the internal mammary versus the thoracodorsal recipient vessels (P < 0.000). Individual surgeon experience correlated with reduced OR times. Post-operative length of stay decreased significantly, without an increase in 30-day readmission or emergency presentations. Flap failure occurred in two cases. Flap take-back rate was 2% (n = 23) with no change between 2005 and 2019. Conclusions Operative times for breast reconstruction have decreased significantly at this center over 15 years. The introduction of venous couplers, use of the internal mammary system, and year of surgery significantly correlated with decreased operative times. Surgeon experience and a shift in surgical workflow for DIEP flap reconstruction likely contributed to the latter finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna R. Todd
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Olivia Genereux
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christiaan Schrag
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alexandra Hatchell
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jennifer Matthews
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Egan KG, Elver AA, Godbe KN, Nazir N, Holding J, Butterworth J, Lai E. Quantifying Complications: An Analysis of Operative Time and Intraoperative Factors in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. J Reconstr Microsurg 2023; 39:43-47. [PMID: 35636433 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1748978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analysis of operative flow has been shown to improve efficiency in breast microsurgery. Both complex decision-making skills and technical mastery are required to overcome intraoperative challenges encountered during microsurgical reconstruction. Effects of intraoperative complications on operative time have not yet been reported. METHODS A retrospective chart review of microsurgical breast reconstructions by three surgeons between 2013-2020 analyzed operative variables and duration. Intraoperative complications were determined from the operative report. Correlations between continuous variables were determined using Spearman correlation coefficients. Nonparametric testing was used when comparing operative duration between groups. RESULTS Operative duration was analyzed for 547 autologous breast reconstruction cases; 210 reconstructions were unilateral and 337 were bilateral. Average operative duration was 471.2 SD 132.2 minutes overall (360.1 SD 100.5 minutes for unilateral cases and 530.5 SD 110.5 minutes for bilateral cases). Operative duration decreased with surgeon experience (r = -0.17, p< .001).Regarding intraoperative complications, difficult donor dissection was correlated with an average operative duration increase of 91.7 minutes (n = 43, 7.9%, p< .001), pedicle injury with an additional 67.7 minutes (n = 19, 3.5%, p = .02) and difficult recipient vessel dissection with an increase of 63.0 minutes (n = 35, 6.4%, p = .003). Complications with anastomosis also showed a statistically significant increase in operative duration, with arterial complications resulting in an increase of 104.3 minutes (n = 41, 7.5%, p< .001) and venous complications resulting in an increase in 78.8 minutes (n = 32, 5.8%, p< .001). Intraoperative thrombus resulted in an increase of 125.5 minutes (n = 20, 3.7%, p< .001), and requiring alternative venous outflow added an average of 193.7 minutes (n = 8, 1.5%, p< .001). CONCLUSION Intraoperative complications in autologous breast reconstruction significantly increase operative time. The greatest increase in operative time is seen with intraoperative thrombosis or requiring alternative venous outflow. As these complications are rarely encountered in breast microsurgery, opportunities for simulation and case-based practice exist to improve efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie G Egan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Ashlie A Elver
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Kerilyn N Godbe
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Niaman Nazir
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Julie Holding
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - James Butterworth
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Eric Lai
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
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Rodnoi P, Teotia SS, Haddock NT. Economic Impact of Refinements in ERAS Pathways in DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction. J Reconstr Microsurg 2021; 38:524-529. [PMID: 34872121 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1740128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols at our institution have led to an expected decrease in hospital length of stay and opioid consumption for patients treated with deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps for breast reconstruction. We look to examine the economic patterns across these years to see the impact of costs for the patient and institution. METHODS This study retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients treated with bilateral DIEP flaps for breast reconstruction between October 2015 and August 2020. We categorized the cases into three categories: pre-ERAS, ERAS, ERAS + bupivacaine. Primary outcomes observed included the contribution margin per operating suite case minute and total cost to the patient. An analysis of variance determined whether there was a difference between the three groups and a Tukey post-hoc analysis made pairwise comparisons. A p-value < 0.05 was significant. RESULTS A total of 268 cases of bilateral DIEPs performed by the two senior authors were analyzed in this study. Seventy-four cases were pre-ERAS, 72 were ERAS, and 122 were ERAS + bupivacaine. There was a statistical difference between the contribution margin per operating minute. A Tukey post hoc test revealed that the average contribution margin per operating suite case minute was significantly higher for the ERAS and ERAS + bupivacaine compared with the pre-ERAS groups.There was a statistically significant difference between the total cost to the patients. A Tukey post hoc test revealed that the average total cost to the patient was statistically significantly lower for the ERAS and ERAS + bupivacaine compared with the pre-ERAS group. CONCLUSION Implementation of ERAS and continued improvements in ERAS resulted in significantly decreased costs for the patient and increased profitability for the hospital. Investing in improvements to ERAS protocols can improve profitability for the institution while simultaneously improving costs and access to care for patients in need of breast reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pope Rodnoi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Sumeet S Teotia
- Department of Plastic Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Nicholas T Haddock
- Department of Plastic Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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