[A new technique for post-mastectomy breast reconstruction: the Muscular Flag Flap (MFF)]

The possibility of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy resulting from breast cancer is still not widely exploited, and perhaps because it is relatively uncommon and unknown, is not widely practised. The plastic surgeons who were pioneers in this field know just how hard it has been to reach the stage we are at today. This leads to longer operating times, in the context of over-worked operating theaters in which time was already at a premium, and this is expecially the case in peripheral hospitals lacking in-house resources for surgical reconstruction and dependent on outisde specialist consultants. In order to address this problem, a new single-operation surgical technique, MFF (Muscular Flag Flap) has been developed. The surgical techniques adopted at present are based on immediate reconstruction or successive reconstruction. The MFF technique was developed as a response to demand for intraoperative reconstruction even when "demolition" is extensive and the breast large. This will reduce the need to operate the contralateral breast. Upper and lower pectoralis major muscle flaps are created in order to produce a large enough pocket for the final prothesis. The elasticity of this muscle is such that a large pocket is possible. The pectoralis major muscle will then envelop at least two thirds of the prosthesis. Projection of the reconstructed cone and a more anatomically normal profile are obtained. This method gives excellent esthetic results in a single operation. Thanks to the collaboration of the hospitals of Ivrea, Pinerolo and Alba over a period of approximately one year, about 80 patients have been very successfully treated using this techhnique. Rapid functional and social recovery have been observed, with no particular problems. In view of the above, we confirm that this new surgical technique will be of considerable benefit to patients.