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High-volume hydrodissection for abdominally based free flaps: Preliminary results.
Timothy Lee1, Nirav Patel1, Beau B Toskich2
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Florida School of Medicine, FL.
Microsurgery
|November 14, 2015
Summary
High-volume hydrodissection safely facilitates deep inferior epigastric perforator dissection for breast reconstruction. This novel technique shows promising preliminary results in human free-flap procedures.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Microsurgery
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- A novel high-volume hydrodissection technique for deep inferior epigastric perforator dissection was previously established in animal models.
- This study aimed to translate and evaluate this technique in human free-flap breast reconstructions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and efficacy of high-volume hydrodissection in human free-flap breast reconstruction.
- To report preliminary outcomes of this technique in facilitating perforator dissection.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of free-flap breast reconstructions using high-volume hydrodissection.
- Study period: January 2014 to June 2015 at the University of Florida Medical Center.
- Follow-up averaged 8.2 months with no patient loss.
Main Results:
- 31 free-flap breast reconstructions were performed on 21 patients.
- Complications included minor flap issues (partial necrosis, fat necrosis), hematoma, abdominal bulge, and cellulitis.
- No major flap loss was reported.
Conclusions:
- High-volume hydrodissection is a safe and effective method for dissecting abdominally based free flaps.
- The technique facilitates perforator dissection, supporting successful breast reconstruction.
- Preliminary results suggest this approach is viable for clinical application.
