Categorizing Patient Selection, Outcomes, and Indications in a Decade of 405 Profunda Artery Perforator Flaps

Autologous tissue is the only permanent option for breast reconstruction. Whereas abdominal tissue remains popular, considering alternative donor sites ensures comprehensive care tailored to a patient. The thigh has been established as an excellent choice in autologous reconstruction. The authors present a 10-year experience with 405 profunda artery perforator (PAP) flaps.

An institutional review board-approved 10-year retrospective review of all patients treated with PAP flaps for breast reconstruction was performed. Procedures were carried out by 2 surgeons at the same institution. PAP flaps were divided into 4 consecutive groups with approximately 100 flaps in each group. Demographics, indications, intraoperative data, postoperative complications, revisions, and patient-reported outcomes were recorded and analyzed.

A total of 207 patients (405 PAP flaps) were included. This accounted for 17.2% of all breast reconstruction flaps. A total of 55% of patients underwent a multiflap procedure. The average flap weight was 354.3 g (±117.2), which decreased significantly over time ( P < 0.001). Rates of major complications were 9.6% wounds, 4.4% seromas, 4.7% hematomas, and 3.5% infections. Total flap loss was 2%, 67% of which were in stacked cases. Satisfaction routinely improved from before to after surgery.

As available flap donor sites continue to evolve, tailoring breast reconstruction to the individual patient is standard in centers of excellence. The PAP flap has emerged as an excellent choice for autologous-based breast reconstruction through use of proper patient selection and surgical technique.

Therapeutic, IV.