抄録
Background : In our quest to perform safe and reliable breast reconstruction using autologous free flap transfer, we hereby introduce the concept of lean breast reconstruction ( LBR ).
Method : The LBR concept consists of the following three approaches : avoiding any complicated arrangement or placement of the flaps, using deep inferior epigastric artery perforator free flaps or MS2 transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous free flaps based on the safety of the flap-harvesting procedures, and using lateral thoracic vessels as the first-choice recipient vessels for microvascular anastomoses whenever appropriate. We compared two patient groups : the conventional reconstructive surgery group and the LBR surgery group.
Results : The cases of 16 patients were reviewed in this study. The reconstruction time did not change significantly after the introduction of the LBR concept, although it tended to be shorter. However, the patients' postoperative hospital stay was significantly reduced, and the perioperative complications rate improved.
Discussion : As the LBR concept is simple, and easy to understand and perform, it can improve the learning curves of surgeons, assistants, and other medical staff. Thus, the LBR concept might enable reliable breast reconstruction to be performed in more patients and improve the surgical outcomes of such reconstructive procedures.
