Dual Coverage of the Inferior Pole with Conjoined Fascial Flap and Acellular Dermal Matrix for Immediate One-Stage Breast Reconstruction with a Prosthetic Implant

Abstract

Background

Elevation of a conjoined fascial flap composed of the pectoralis major, serratus anterior, and external oblique fascia is a type of surgical technique using autologous tissue to cover the lower pole after immediate one-stage direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction. However, volumetric breast implants hinder use of this technique alone. For better structural stability and more aesthetically favorable breast contour in large breasts, we have devised a technique involving dual coverage of the lower pole by a conjoined fascial flap and acellular dermal matrix (ADM).

Methods

Twenty Asian patients underwent DTI breast reconstruction from March 2013 to May 2014. ADM was used to cover the inferomedial quadrant of the breast, and a conjoined fascial flap was elevated to cover the remaining inferolateral quadrant. Both patient- and plastic surgeon-reported outcome measures were assessed using questionnaires.

Result

For every domain of the patient- and plastic surgeon-reported questionnaires, the mean scores were between satisfied and very satisfied. Two patients developed a seroma and one patient developed partial skin flap necrosis. Both seromas resolved after a series of aspirations. The necrotic skin flap was revised under local anesthesia 3 weeks after the reconstructive surgery.

Conclusion

The use of dual coverage of the inferior pole with a conjoined fascial flap and ADM for immediate DTI among patients with large breasts is supported by high scores in both patient- and plastic surgeon-reported outcome measures, as well as low complication rates.

Level of Evidence IV

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