Postoperative Upper Extremity Function in Implant and Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Plastic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Mastectomy and breast reconstruction can lead to upper extremity complications affecting quality of life.
• Limited data exists comparing postoperative upper extremity function across different breast reconstruction techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare postoperative upper extremity function in patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction.
• To identify differences in complications based on reconstruction method: implant-based versus autologous deep inferior epigastric perforator flap.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients in a physical therapy program post-mastectomy and reconstruction.
• Data collected from physical therapy evaluations and hospital records.
• Comparison of upper extremity function between implant-based and autologous flap reconstruction groups.

Main Results:

• Autologous reconstruction patients experienced significantly higher arm pain at rest and with activity.
• Implant patients reported more difficulty with activities of daily living and weaker elbow flexion.
• Shoulder range of motion, muscle strength, and lymphedema measurements were similar between groups.

Conclusions:

• Breast reconstruction techniques influence postoperative upper extremity complications.
• Postoperative care and physical therapy can be tailored to specific reconstruction types.
• Further research is ongoing to assess the impact of physical therapy on function.