Discussion: double venous system drainage in deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction: a single-surgeon experience.

摘要

In this article, Dr. Boutros relayed his personal experience performing 352 deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstructions on 192 patients. Numerous experiences from a single surgeon that minimize variables in surgical technique are valuable. First of all, I applaud the amazing operative skills of this author, who reported no partial or total flap losses. In addition, operative take-backs were significantly reduced when dual venous system (superficial and deep) anastomosis was performed, compared with single deep venous system anastomosis. Based on this finding, the current study concludes that a secondary superficial vein anastomosis is beneficial as a means of reducing operative take-backs. However, I would like to elaborate on methodology and outcome measures (i.e., operative take-backs, fat necrosis, and flap failure) used in this retrospective study.