A free-style approach to selection of locoregional perforator flaps for unilateral breast restoration

Abstract

Background

Evolution in breast oncology has increased the use of breast-conserving therapy and expanded the role of locoregional autologous reconstruction. While bilateral reduction is common for patients with large, ptotic breasts, those with small to moderate symmetric breasts often prefer unilateral volume restoration. This study demonstrates a free-style approach to flap selection and design for partial and total breast reconstruction, emphasizing intraoperative decision-making and preservation of muscle and nerve function.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on patients undergoing perforator flap reconstruction from 2016 to 2023. Demographic, oncologic, and operative data were analyzed. Flap type was chosen intraoperatively based on donor tissue availability, perforator quality, and defect characteristics and included thoracodorsal artery perforator flap (TDAP), muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi (ms-LD), lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP), and anterior intercostal artery perforator (AICAP) flaps.

Results

Twenty-three reconstructions were included: 18 following lumpectomy (78%) and 5 following mastectomy (22%). Reconstruction was immediate in 78% of cases. The average lumpectomy resection weight was 64 g, and the median operative time was 3.5 h. TDAP was the most frequently employed flap (52%), followed by ms-LD (21%), LICAP (13%), and AICAP (13%). Minor complications occurred in three patients, and only two patients experienced mastectomy skin flap necrosis requiring revision.

Conclusions

Locoregional perforator flaps provide reliable volume replacement with preservation of muscle function and minimal donor morbidity. The free-style intraoperative selection based on donor tissue quality offers versatile reconstruction without necessitating contralateral procedures.