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Breast-volume displacement using an extended glandular flap for small dense breasts
Tomoko Ogawa1, Noriko Hanamura, Masako Yamashita
1Department of Breast Surgery, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie 514-8507, Japan.
Plastic Surgery International
|May 9, 2012
Summary
The extended glandular flap technique offers effective breast-conserving reconstruction for small, dense breasts. This method involves creating a flap from the subclavicular area for improved cosmetic outcomes in partial mastectomy patients.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Oncologic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) is a standard treatment for early-stage breast cancer.
- Reconstruction following BCS, particularly for upper pole defects, presents challenges.
- The extended glandular flap is a technique developed to address these reconstructive needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and evaluate the extended glandular flap for breast-conserving reconstruction.
- To assess the oncologic and cosmetic outcomes of this technique in patients undergoing partial mastectomy.
Main Methods:
- The extended glandular flap was created by incorporating subclavicular fat and breast tissue.
- Surgical technique involved freeing the breast from skin and pectoralis fascia up to preoperative markings.
- Preservation of perforators from the internal mammary artery and/or lateral thoracic artery was crucial.
Main Results:
- Seventeen patients were treated with the extended glandular flap.
- At 1-year follow-up, cosmetic results were excellent in 11, good in 1, fair in 3, and poor in 2 patients.
- Unacceptable outcomes were mostly associated with complications; large resections (>30%) in moderate/large breasts yielded suboptimal long-term results.
Conclusions:
- The extended glandular flap is a valuable technique for breast-conserving reconstruction in small, dense breasts.
- It provides a viable option for upper pole breast defects after partial mastectomy.
- Careful patient selection and technique are essential for optimal outcomes.
