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DIEP breast reconstruction following multiple abdominal liposuction procedures.
Mohammed Farid1, Simon Nicholson1, Ashutosh Kotwal1
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Hull and East Yorkshire NHS Trust, Hull, United Kingdom.
Eplasty
|February 12, 2015
Summary
Deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flaps can be safely raised after multiple abdominal liposuction procedures. This study presents two successful cases, challenging previous contraindications for abdominal free flaps in patients with prior abdominal surgery.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Previous abdominal wall surgery is often considered a contraindication for abdominal free tissue transfer.
- Abdominal liposuction and fat grafting are common cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Observation:
- Two patients with a history of multiple abdominal liposuction procedures underwent successful deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap reconstructions.
- Preoperative imaging (CT angiography and MR angiography) confirmed suitable perforator anatomy in both cases.
Findings:
- Both patients experienced successful free flap reconstructions with no perfusion-related complications, such as fat necrosis or wound dehiscence.
- The reconstructions healed well, demonstrating the viability of DIEP flaps even after extensive abdominal liposuction.
Implications:
- This study challenges the traditional view of abdominal wall surgery as an absolute contraindication for DIEP flaps.
- It suggests that DIEP flaps are a viable option for abdominal reconstruction in patients with a history of liposuction, expanding reconstructive possibilities.
