The aim of the studywas to evaluate the efficacy of different microvascular techniques in breast reconstruction with the analysis of postoperative complications. The additional goal of the study is to analyze the quality of life of patients after microvascular breast reconstruction in comparison to the control group of patients who underwent only mastectomy without any reconstructive procedures. Also the algorithm of breast reconstruction is presented as the result of own experiences. Material and methods.Clinical material contain 2 groups of patients - women after surgical treatment in Department of Oncological and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center in Gliwice in the year 2004-2009 where in 53 cases immediate and in 26 delayed breast microvascular reconstruction were performed. In all cases the diagnosis of cancer was proved by histopathological biopsy before the treatment. The type of radical resection (mastectomy) depended on histopathological type of cancer and its localization. The reconstruction - immediate vs delayed was carefully planned together with oncological treatment of the cases. Everywhere this plan was established based on carefully examinations of inferior epigastric vessels and theirs perforators. The choice between immediate and delayed microvascular reconstruction was based on prognosis and predictive factors. The QOL was analyzed due to own questionnaire when functional, aesthetics and social effects were evaluated. ResultsFree flap survival rate for all types of free flap was 95%. In cases where classic TRAM was used the rate was 85%, in cases where muscle sparring TRAM was chosen the survival rate was 100% and in remaining cases of DIEP reconstructions the rate was 89%. Generally the complications after microvascular reconstruction occurred in 13 cases (16%). In 9 cases the problems with flaps perfusion were notified. Total flap necrosis was observed in 2 TRAM and in 2 DIEP cases. In all those cases salvage surgery was administered in which the microanastomoses were explored and repaired. In 5 cases the cause of the complications was venous thrombosis, in 2 cases the vascular pedicle was kinked, and in remaining 1 the arterial thrombosis was found. The second type of complication was fat necrosis (<25% of flap volume) which was observed in 5 cases between 1 and 4 months after surgery, and it request minor plastic surgery. Donor site complications were noted in 4 cases. In two of those hernia in cicatrices was diagnosed (both were classic TRAM’s), in remaining 2 in which also fully muscle TRAM was classic the weakness of abdominal wall was observed. In group were msTRAM and DIEP were used no donor site complications occurred.
The extended latissimus dorsi flap (LD) is used in breast reconstruction since the 70's. LD flap is often used in corrective surgery in cases of unsatisfactory cosmetic results after breast-conserving therapy. In our department LD flap has several uses. In addition to free microvascular flaps - which applies in breast reconstructive surgery is routine, there are clinical situations where the use of pedicled LD flap is justified. The main indications for its use are: the inability to apply microvascular flap, the general condition (diabetes, advanced atherosclerosis), smoking, previous surgery of abdominal wall, abdominal obesity, patient preferences. Approximately 30% of patients after breast reconstruction require corrective procedures. Group which uses extended LD flap account for 24 patients. In 16 cases it was used for elective breast reconstruction. In the remaining eight cases it was used in the corrective procedures symmetry and shape of the previously reconstructed breast. Based on our own experience it can be concluded that the LD flap with an alternative to microvascular techniques. Complication rate when using the LD flap is relatively low and includes: seroma and slight motor disability of the shoulder girdle.
The rectovaginal or rectovesical fistula is a rare complication after low anterior resection for rectal cancer. Treatment is difficult and the result is often unsatisfactory.The aim of this paper was to present results of treatment with transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps of rectovaginal and rectovesical fistulas as complication of low anterior rectal resection due to adenocarcinoma.Material and methods. We report six patients with rectovaginal or rectovesical fistulas as a postoperative complication after low anterior resection of rectal cancer in Department of Oncological and Reconstructive Surgery in 2006-2008. Transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps are used for rectovaginal and rectovesical fistulas treatment.Results. In the follow-up period from 4 to 30 months no rectovaginal or rectovesical fistula recurrences and any postoperative complications were noted in all cases.Conclusions. Transverse (TRAM) rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps are an effective, surgical method for rectovaginal or rectovesical fistulas treatement, especially in patients who recived pre or postoperative radiotherapy.
Malignant tumors of head and neck regions usually need wide radical resections and may cause significant functional and aesthetic deficits. When a surgeon has to deal with extensive 3-D defect in lower or middle face region, double or multiple free flaps can be used.The aim of the study was to present own methods modifications and results of double free flaps techniques in patients with extensive defects of head and neck region. The authors present quality of life evaluation related to different flaps reconstructions.Material and methods. Clinical material consists of 33 patients with locally advanced cancer of lower or middle face region, who underwent surgical treatment in Departmant of Surgical and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center Maria Skłodowska-Curie Instytute, Gliwice, Poland. In all patients double free flaps were chosen.Results. Whole group good functional and aesthetic results have been achieved. The QOL analysis show that the use of double flap in middle of lower face reconstruction gives generally very good results.Conclusions. The use of double free flaps after extensive resections of head and neck tumors is an efficient solution. The above-mentioned technique enables to reconstruct several different anatomical structures, restore optimal functioning, and assure a satisfactory psychosocial effect.
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