Transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap breast reconstruction in sickle cell disease

Patients with homozygous sickle cell disease pose an enormous challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Historically, the risk of attempting flap reconstruction was considered prohibitive. A successful case of immediate breast reconstruction with a "supercharged" bipedicled transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap is presented. Perioperative transfusions that maintained the sickle hemoglobin S level below 30% were crucial in preventing erythrocyte sickling in the microcirculation of the flap during the period of relative ischemia.