Expanding the indications for latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap in totally autologous breast reconstruction: the extended variant

[Breast reconstruction by latissimus dorsi flap: Towards an evolution of ideas]

AIM OF THE STUDY

Breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap and fat grafting is a technique widely used in current practice. Some operators still complain at the lack of final results at the first intervention and the need for repeated lipofilling sessions. The objective of this study was to compare the number of reoperations in patients who underwent reconstruction with latissimus dorsi with prosthesis versus without prosthesis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We included all patients operated for breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap, with or without prosthesis between 2008 and 2012 in our center. We noted the number of new surgical interventions in these patients on the reconstructed breast. We also noted the average weight of mastectomy in two groups each year.

RESULTS

One hundred and eighty-six patients were included in this study. Ninety-one patients underwent reconstruction with latissimus dorsi and prosthesis, and 95 patients reconstruction by latissimus dorsi and fat graft. It has not been demonstrated significant differences in the number of new surgical procedures between the two groups. The average weight of mastectomies in the autologous group has steadily increased over the five years. There was no significant difference in the average weight of mastectomies between the two groups over the last two years.

CONCLUSION

For breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap, surgical indications changed in our center to the absence of prosthetic implant, whatever the volume of the breast.

The evolving breast reconstruction: from latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap to a propeller thoracodorsal fasciocutaneous flap

The aim of this editorial is to give an update on the use of the propeller thoracodorsal artery perforator flap (TAP/TDAP-flap) within the field of breast reconstruction. The TAP-flap can be dissected by a combined use of a monopolar cautery and a scalpel. Microsurgical instruments are generally not needed. The propeller TAP-flap can be designed in different ways, three of these have been published: (I) an oblique upwards design; (II) a horizontal design; (III) an oblique downward design. The latissimus dorsi-flap is a good and reliable option for breast reconstruction, but has been criticized for morbidity and complications. The TAP-flap does not seem to impair the function of the shoulder or arm and the morbidity appears to be scarce. However, an implant is often needed in combination with the TAP-flap, which results in implant related morbidity over time. The TAP-flap seems to be a promising tool for oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery and will certainly become an invaluable addition to breast reconstructive methods.