Zachary Zamore, Pooja S Yesantharao, Pathik Aravind, A Lee Dellon
{"title":"Economic Cost-Benefit Analysis of Nerve Implanted into Muscle versus Targeted Muscle Reinnervation versus Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface, for Treatment of the Painful Neuroma.","authors":"Zachary Zamore, Pooja S Yesantharao, Pathik Aravind, A Lee Dellon","doi":"10.1055/a-2273-3940","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2273-3940","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> This study investigated the relative cost utility of three techniques for the management of symptomatic neuromas after neuroma excision: (1) implantation of nerve into muscle, (2) targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR), and (3) regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> The costs associated with each procedure were determined using Common Procedural Terminology codes in combination with data from the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services Physician and Facility 2020 Fee Schedules. The relative utility of the three procedures investigated was determined using changes in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores as reported per procedure. The relative utility of each procedure was reported in terms of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), as is standard in the literature.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> The least expensive option for the surgical treatment of painful neuromas was nerve implantation into an adjacent muscle. In contrast, for the treatment of four neuromas, as is common postamputation, TMR without a microscope was found to cost $50,061.55 per QALY gained, TMR with a microscope was found to cost $51,996.80 per QALY gained, and RPNI was found to cost $14,069.28 per QALY gained. While RPNI was more expensive than nerve implantation into muscle, it was still below the standard willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000 per QALY, while TMR was not.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> Evaluation of costs and utilities associated with the various surgical options for the management of painful neuromas suggest that nerve implantation into muscle is the least expensive option with the best improvement in QALY, while demonstrating comparable outcomes to TMR and RPNI with regard to pain symptoms.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":"642-647"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139931570","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ellen C Shaffrey, Weifeng Zeng, Peter J Nicksic, Sahand C Eftekari, Jennifer M Frank, Aaron M Dingle, Samuel O Poore
{"title":"Perforator Dissection Porcine Abdominal Model: A Novel Simulator to Improve Microsurgical Training.","authors":"Ellen C Shaffrey, Weifeng Zeng, Peter J Nicksic, Sahand C Eftekari, Jennifer M Frank, Aaron M Dingle, Samuel O Poore","doi":"10.1055/s-0044-1779719","DOIUrl":"10.1055/s-0044-1779719","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Perforator dissection and flap elevation are routinely performed for microsurgical reconstruction; however, there is a steep learning curve to mastering these technical skills. Though live porcine models have been utilized as microsurgical training models, significant drawbacks limit their use. We recently developed a latex-perfused, nonliving, porcine abdomen perforator dissection simulation and described its anatomic similarity to the human deep inferior epigastric artery flap. The purpose was to assess the change in resident confidence in performing key operative steps of flap elevation and perforator dissection and obtain feedback on model realism and utility.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> Seventeen plastic and reconstructive surgery resident physicians (postgraduate years 1-6) at a single institution participated in a perforator dissection session utilizing the simulation model. Each resident completed pre- and postactivity surveys to assess interval change in confidence in operating. The postactivity survey also asked residents to answer questions regarding their perception of the model's anatomic and surgical realism and utility in microsurgical training.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> Following a practice session using the latex-perfused, nonliving porcine abdomen, resident confidence was significantly increased in performing all key operative steps and the procedure overall (<i>p</i> = 0.001). All residents (<i>n</i> = 17, 100%) believed the model would improve \"trainees' ability to perform perforator dissection in the operating room.\" Perforator, fascial, and pedicle anatomy were reported to be \"Very\" similar to human anatomy, with a median Likert score (MLS) of 4. Additionally, six out of the eight surgical steps were noted to be \"Very\" realistic, with only \"Flap Design\" and \"Fascial Closure\" found to be \"Moderately\" realistic with an MLS of 3.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> The latex-infused porcine abdominal model is a novel, realistic simulation for microsurgical trainee perforator dissection practice. This model offers a suitable substitute for perforator dissection practice, as its implementation within a microsurgery training course improves resident comfort and confidence.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":"571-577"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139940137","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kassra Garoosi, YooJin Yoon, Julian Winocour, David W Mathes, Christodoulos Kaoutzanis
{"title":"The Effects of Body Mass Index on Postoperative Complications in Patients Undergoing Autologous Free Flap Breast Reconstruction.","authors":"Kassra Garoosi, YooJin Yoon, Julian Winocour, David W Mathes, Christodoulos Kaoutzanis","doi":"10.1055/s-0044-1780518","DOIUrl":"10.1055/s-0044-1780518","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> The prevalence of obesity in the United States exceeds 40%, yet perioperative effects of higher body mass index (BMI) in autologous breast reconstruction remain poorly studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate BMI's impact on postop complications in abdominal and gluteal-based autologous breast reconstruction.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> We conducted a retrospective study using TriNetX, a health care database containing de-identified data from more than 250 million patients. Patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction were identified by Current Procedural Terminology codes. Four cohorts were established by BMI class: <24.99, 25 to 29.99, 30 to 34.99, and 35 to 39.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>. Outcomes of interest were defined by International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes. A two-sample <i>t</i>-test was performed to compare incidence of postoperative complications between cohorts within 3 months of surgery. Patients with a BMI < 24.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup> served as the control. Cohorts were balanced on age, race, and ethnicity.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> We identified 8,791 patients who underwent autologous breast reconstruction. Of those, 1,143 had a BMI < 24.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>, 1,867 had a BMI of 25 to 29.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>, 1,396 had a BMI of 30 to 34.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>, and 559 had a BMI of 35 to 39.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>. Patients with a BMI of 25 to 29.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup> had a significantly increased risk of cellulitis. Patients with a BMI of 30 to 34.99 and 35 to 39.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup> had a significantly increased risk of cellulitis, surgical site infection, need for debridement, wound dehiscence, and flap failure.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> Our study illustrates that there is an increased risk of postoperative complications associated with higher BMI classes. Understanding these data are imperative for providers to adequately stratify patients and guide the procedural decision-making.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":"601-610"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139940138","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Brooke E Porter, Thalia C Anderson, Angela S Ash, Sarah E Langsdon, Leanna M Zelle, Thomas D Willson
{"title":"Impact of Resident and Attending Surgeon Training Level on Free Tissue Transfer Ischemia Time and Complications.","authors":"Brooke E Porter, Thalia C Anderson, Angela S Ash, Sarah E Langsdon, Leanna M Zelle, Thomas D Willson","doi":"10.1055/a-2404-7899","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2404-7899","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Microsurgical free tissue transfer has become an essential method for reconstruction of complex surgical defects, making the level of training an important factor to consider. There is little published regarding the impact of training level on microsurgical outcomes. This study investigates microsurgical free tissue transfer ischemia time and postoperative complications based on resident and attending surgeon experience level.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> A retrospective review of all free flaps at a single institution from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2021 was performed. Linear regression was performed analyzing ischemia time of 497 free flaps and attending surgeon experience defined by years in practice and resident level defined as postgraduate year (PGY). Logistic regression model was used to analyze complications based on attending experience and resident level.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> The average resident PGY was 3.5 ± 0.8; the average attending has been practicing for 6.4 ± 5.1 years. There was no statistically significant difference in ischemia time or complication rates based on resident PGY or attending surgeon experience level.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> Lower PGY residents were not found to increase ischemia time or increase complication rates. Lower attending surgeon year was not found to increase ischemia time or increase complication rates compared with surgeons who had been practicing for longer. Microsurgical free tissue transfer is considered a safe procedure in residency training and trainee involvement should be encouraged to improve resident education and enhance technical skills.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142080680","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Eloise W Stanton, Asli Pekcan, Idean Roohani, Deborah Choe, Joseph N Carey, David A Daar
{"title":"A Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes Based on Muscle versus Fasciocutaneous Flaps in Scalp Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.","authors":"Eloise W Stanton, Asli Pekcan, Idean Roohani, Deborah Choe, Joseph N Carey, David A Daar","doi":"10.1055/a-2404-2539","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2404-2539","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Scalp reconstruction in plastic and reconstructive surgery often necessitates the transfer of soft-tissue flaps to restore form and function. The critical decision lies in choosing between muscle-containing (MC) and fasciocutaneous (FC) flaps for scalp reconstruction, and while both variants have their merits, flap composition remains a subject of ongoing debate. This scientific discussion aims to explore this contentious issue through a comprehensive meta-analysis, shedding light on the rationale behind the choice of these flaps and the potential impact on clinical outcomes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> A comprehensive systematic review was conducted following PRISMA-P guidelines, encompassing six prominent databases up to the year 2023. Data were collected from studies assessing outcomes of MC and FC flaps for scalp reconstruction. Quality evaluation was performed using ASPS criteria and the ROBINS-I tool. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, meta-analysis, sensitivity analysis, and assessment of bias using STATA software.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> The meta-analysis included 28 nonrandomized studies, totaling 594 flaps (MC: 380, FC: 214). MC flaps were significantly larger than FC flaps. There were no significant differences in flap loss, flap necrosis, or wound dehiscence between the two flap types. However, the incidence of venous congestion was significantly higher in FC flaps. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of results, and publication bias assessment showed no significant evidence of bias.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> While both MC and FC flaps offer viable options for scalp reconstruction, the choice should be tailored to individual patient characteristics and defect size. FC flaps may provide advantages such as shorter operative times and reduced morbidity, whereas MC flaps could be preferred for addressing larger defects. Future research should focus on prospective studies and strategies to mitigate venous congestion in FC flaps, enhancing their safety and efficacy in scalp reconstruction.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142080673","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Angiosome-Guided Perfusion Decellularization of Fasciocutaneous Flaps.","authors":"Liya Yang, Xueshan Bai, Yuanbo Liu, Shan Zhu, Shanshan Li, Zixiang Chen, Tinglu Han, Shengyang Jin, Mengqing Zang","doi":"10.1055/a-2404-2608","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2404-2608","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Tissue engineering based on whole-organ perfusion decellularization has successfully generated small-animal organs, including the heart and limbs. Herein, we aimed to use angiosome-guided perfusion decellularization to develop an acellular fasciocutaneous flap matrix with an intact vascular network.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> Abdominal flaps of rats were harvested, and the vascular pedicle (iliac artery and vein) was dissected and injected with methylene blue to identify the angiosome region and determine the flap dimension for harvesting. To decellularize flaps, the iliac artery was perfused sequentially with 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), deionized water, and 1% Triton-X100. Gross morphology, histology, and DNA quantity of flaps were then obtained. Flaps were also subjected to glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and hydroxyproline content assays and computed tomography angiography.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> Histological assessment indicated that cellular content was completely removed in all flap layers following a 10-hour perfusion in SDS. DNA quantification confirmed 81% DNA removal. Based on biochemical assays, decellularized flaps had hydroxyproline content comparable with that of native flaps, although significantly fewer GAGs (<i>p</i> = 0.0019). Histology and computed tomography angiography illustrated the integrity and perfusability of the vascular system.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> The proposed angiosome-guided perfusion decellularization protocol could effectively remove cellular content from rat fasciocutaneous flaps and preserve the integrity of innate vascular networks.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142080675","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Alec D Simoni, Justin E Bird, Patrick P Lin, Laurence D Rhines, Alexander F Mericli
{"title":"Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing to Facilitate Microvascular Free Tissue Transfer in Extremity, Pelvic, and Spinal Reconstructions.","authors":"Alec D Simoni, Justin E Bird, Patrick P Lin, Laurence D Rhines, Alexander F Mericli","doi":"10.1055/a-2404-7819","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2404-7819","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Numerous surgical fields have embraced computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), including plastic and reconstructive surgery. However, most of the literature and clinical use pertains to reconstruction of the head and neck. Herein, we provide a case series and systematic review of the literature, documenting the use of CAD/CAM in facilitating complex microvascular free tissue transfer for reconstructions involving the extremities, pelvis, and spine (EPS).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> This study consisted of two components: a case series and a systematic review of the literature. For the case series, the senior author's cases that included CAD/CAM to assist microvascular free tissue transfer reconstructions of the EPS were included. For the systematic review, all PubMed-, Scopus-, and Google Scholar-indexed studies describing the use of CAD/CAM to facilitate free tissue transfer in the EPS were identified and included using PRSMA guidelines.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> The case series identified 10 patients who received CAD/CAM-assisted microvascular reconstruction. Our systematic review identified 15 articles, representing 124 patients and 133 CAD/CAM-assisted free tissue transfers. Most authors believed that CAD/CAM facilitated a more efficient operation by shifting much of the intraoperative planning to the preoperative phase, ultimately translating to a shorter and more accurate surgery with improved function and cosmesis.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> CAD/CAM can be used to facilitate microvascular reconstruction of the EPS. Our cases series and systematic review suggest that CAD/CAM for EPS surgery may improve outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142080676","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jessica R Nye, David T Mitchell, Michael T Talanker, David C Hopkins, Ellen Wang, Chioma G Obinero, Jose E Barrera, Matthew R Greives, Yuewei Wu-Fienberg, Mohin A Bhadkamkar
{"title":"Elevating Lower Extremity Reconstruction: An Algorithmic Approach to Free Flap Re-elevation.","authors":"Jessica R Nye, David T Mitchell, Michael T Talanker, David C Hopkins, Ellen Wang, Chioma G Obinero, Jose E Barrera, Matthew R Greives, Yuewei Wu-Fienberg, Mohin A Bhadkamkar","doi":"10.1055/a-2404-2759","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2404-2759","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Free flap (FF) reconstruction is frequently required for soft-tissue coverage after significant orthopaedic trauma of the lower extremity (LE). While usually the final step in limb salvage, re-elevation of the previously inset FF may be necessary to restore a functional limb. In this study, we present our algorithm for LE FF re-elevation and review our experience to identify factors associated with successful limb salvage and return to ambulation.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> A retrospective, single-institution review was conducted of adult patients with LE wounds who required FF reconstruction from 2016 to 2021. From this cohort, patients who required re-elevation of their LE FF were identified. Successful FF re-elevation was defined by limb salvage and return to ambulation.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> During the study period, 412 patients with LE wounds required flap reconstruction. Of these patients, 205 (49.8%) underwent free tissue transfer, and 39 (9.5%) met our inclusion criteria. From this cohort, 34 had successful FF re-elevation, while 1 was non-weight bearing and 4 were elected for amputation due to chronic complications unrelated to their FF. Univariate analysis revealed the total number of FF re-elevations (<i>p</i> < 0.001), the frequency of re-elevation indicated for orthopaedic access (<i>p</i> < 0.001), and infections necessitating return to the operating room (<i>p</i> = 0.001) were each negatively associated with limb salvage and return to ambulation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> The described algorithm highlights the preoperative planning and meticulous flap preservation necessary for the successful coverage of critical structures following FF re-elevation. Our data demonstrate that LE FFs can be safely re-elevated for hardware access or flap revision. In these complex cases of LE trauma, management by a multidisciplinary team is essential for successful limb salvage.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142080678","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Strategy for Indocyanine Green Injection to Identify Lymphatic Vessels in Groin Territory.","authors":"Ayaka Ogura, Toko Miyazaki","doi":"10.1055/s-0044-1791254","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0044-1791254","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142289708","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Rachel E Schafer, Joseph D Quick, Madeleine M Blazel, Priya Shukla, Shannon S Wu, Raffi Gurunian, Steven Bernard, Sarah N Bishop, Graham Schwarz, Risal Djohan
{"title":"Accessibility of Neurotization in Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Reconstruction: Inequities and Implications for Preauthorization.","authors":"Rachel E Schafer, Joseph D Quick, Madeleine M Blazel, Priya Shukla, Shannon S Wu, Raffi Gurunian, Steven Bernard, Sarah N Bishop, Graham Schwarz, Risal Djohan","doi":"10.1055/a-2404-1924","DOIUrl":"10.1055/a-2404-1924","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong> Breast anesthesia and hypoesthesia occur commonly after mastectomy and negatively impact quality of life. Neurotization during deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) breast reconstruction offers enhanced sensory recovery. However, access to neurotization for DIEP reconstruction patients has not been evaluated.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong> This retrospective study included patients who underwent DIEP breast reconstruction between January 2021 and July 2022 at a tertiary-care, academic institution. Demographics, outcomes, insurance type, and Area Deprivation Index (ADI) were compared using two-sample <i>t</i>-test or chi-square analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong> Of the 124 patients who met criteria, 41% had neurotization of their DIEP flaps. There was no difference in history of tobacco use (29% vs 33%), diabetes (14% vs 9.6%), operative time (9.43 vs 9.73 h), length of hospital stay (3 d vs 3 d), hospital readmission (9.8% vs 6.8%), or reoperation (12% vs 12%) between patients with and without neurotization. However, access to neurotization differed significantly by patient health insurance type. Patients who received neurotization had a lower median ADI percentile of 40.0, indicating higher socioeconomic advantage compared with patients who did not receive neurotization at 59.0 (<i>p</i> = 0.01).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong> Access to neurotization differed significantly by patient health insurance and by ADI percentile. Expanding insurance coverage to cover neurotization is needed to increase equitable access and enhance quality of life for patients who come from disadvantaged communities. Our institution's process for preauthorization is outlined to enhance likelihood of insurance approval for neurotization.</p>","PeriodicalId":16949,"journal":{"name":"Journal of reconstructive microsurgery","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2024-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142080674","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}