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Cannula-Assisted Flap Elevation (CAFE): a novel technique for developing flaps during skin-sparing mastectomies
1Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA, mandjgrant@sbcglobal.net.
Annals of Surgical Oncology
|September 17, 2014
Summary
The CAFE procedure uses liposuction cannulas to simplify skin flap creation during skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM). This technique offers impressive cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction with a short learning curve.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Breast Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) is a challenging breast surgery procedure.
- Developing skin flaps is more difficult with smaller incisions in SSM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel technique for creating skin flaps in SSM.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the CAFE procedure.
Main Methods:
- A new procedure, CAFE (Cannula-Assisted Flap Elevation), was developed.
- Liposuction cannulas (without suction) are used to create skin flaps.
Main Results:
- The CAFE procedure was performed on 289 mastectomies (171 patients) between October 2012 and April 2014.
- No flap viability issues were observed; bruising was transient.
- The technique demonstrated a short learning curve, leading to high surgeon proficiency and excellent cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- The CAFE procedure simplifies and accelerates skin flap creation for SSM.
- This technique is particularly beneficial for developing skin flaps with small incisions.
