Care of patients with deep inferior epigastric perforator reconstruction

Recent trends reflect greater numbers of women opting for mastectomy for invasive breast cancer. Breast reconstruction, either at the time of mastectomy or later, is increasingly an option patients prefer. Although many women opt for implants, reconstruction using autologous tissue offers several advantages including tissue that feels more natural and will age naturally with the patient. The deep inferior epigastric perforator flap has emerged as an alternative to the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap and allows for preservation of the underlying abdominal muscle. As greater numbers of surgeons are able to offer this microvascular alternative, nurses will care for these postoperative patients in the intensive care unit and medical/surgical settings. This article reviews the evaluation of patients for deep inferior epigastric perforator reconstruction and the unique complexities of postoperative nursing care for these patients.