DIEP flap for breast reconstruction: Is abdominal fat thickness associated with post-operative complications?

摘要: Summary Introduction Some surgeons consider a high body mass index (BMI) or important abdominal fat excess as contraindications for breast reconstruction with free deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. This study aimed to identify factors associated post-operative complications by using this type of flap, an emphasis on BMI and subcutaneous thickness. Methods A retrospective chart review 105 consecutive patients who underwent DIEP flap at our institution was performed assess complications. Among other risk factors, we specifically studied the influence wall thickness complication occurrence. Abdominal measured 10 different points angio-computed tomography scan pre-operatively. Results Median age 49.8 years (range, 27–69); average 25.57 kg/m 2 18.07–41.91). Immediate 35% patients, five (4.7%) bilateral reconstruction. Twenty-six (24.8%) presented 29 complications; 12 concerned (delayed wound healing [n = 6] seroma [n = 6]) 17 were related reconstructed (six minimal necrosis treated conservatively, eight minor requiring surgical debridement three total loss). The rate not correlated increased only factor that significantly predicts pre-operative radiotherapy (odds ratio = 4.05; p  = 0.03). Conclusions No significant correlation observed between 25–35 kg/m donor site Therefore, these should be considered contraindication criteria.