Abdominal Flap Provides Improved Breast Reconstruction Results

When compared to women who underwent mastectomy, QOL scores were significantly better with DIEP flap reconstruction, with higher scores in all areas of QOL, compared to those with no breast reconstruction, and on five out of eight subscales compared to those with other types of reconstruction. The study was published in the May 2016 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

“These results indicate that DIEP flap breast reconstruction allows patients with breast cancer to maintain a good postoperative quality of life, comparable to that of the general population,” concluded lead author Vincent Hunsinger, MD, and colleagues. “Undergoing breast reconstruction may enhance women's ability to fight against the burden of breast cancer, particularly in younger age groups.”

DIEP flap breast reconstruction involves removal of the deep inferior epigastric perforators blood vessels--including the skin and fat connected to them--from the lower abdomen. The collective flap is then transplanted and connected to the patient's chest using microsurgery. The plastic surgeon then shapes the flap to create the new breast, without the sacrifice of any of the abdominal muscles. Many women who undergo this form of reconstruction enjoy the added benefit of a flatter abdomen. Due to the complexity of the surgery, few breast centers offer DIEP flap breast reconstruction.

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