@article{GS9174,
author = {Edmund Fitzgerald O’Connor and Warren Matthew Rozen and Muhammad Chowdhry and Bassam Band and Venkat V. Ramakrishnan and Matthew Griffiths},
title = {Preoperative computed tomography angiography for planning DIEP flap breast reconstruction reduces operative time and overall complications},
journal = {Gland Surgery},
volume = {5},
number = {2},
year = {2016},
keywords = {},
abstract = {Background: The approach and operative techniques associated with breast reconstruction have steadily been refined since its inception, with abdominal perforator-based flaps becoming the gold standard reconstructive option for women undergoing breast cancer surgery. The current study comprises a cohort of 632 patients, in whom specific operative times are recorded by a blinded observer, and aims to address the potential benefits seen with the use of CT scanning preoperatively on operative outcomes, complications and surgical times.
Methods: A prospectively recorded, retrospective review was undertaken of patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap at the St Andrews Centre over a 4-year period from 2010 to 2014. CTA scanning of patients began in September 2012 and thus 2 time periods were compared:
2 years prior to the use of CTA scans and 2 years afterwards. For all patients, key variables were collected including patient demographics, operative times, flap harvest time, pedicle length, surgeon experience and complications.
Results: In group 1, comprising patients within the period prior to CTA scans, 265 patients underwent 312 flaps; whilst in group 2, the immediately following 2 years, 275 patients had 320 flaps. The use of preoperative CTA scans demonstrated a significant reduction in flap harvest time of 13 minutes (P},
issn = {2227-8575}, url = {https://gs.amegroups.org/article/view/9174}
}