COSMETIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-Breast Reconstruction Modality Outcome Study: A Comparison of Expander/Implants and Free Flaps in Select Patients

摘要

Background.-Choosing a breast reconstructive modality after mastectomy is a critical step involving complex decisions. The authors provide outcomes data comparing two common reconstructive modalities to assist patients and surgeons in preoperative counseling and discussions. Methods.-A prospectively maintained database was queried identifying select patients undergoing expander/ implant and abdominally based free flaps for breast reconstruction between 2005 and 2008. Variables evaluated included comorbidities, operations, time to reconstruction, complications, overall outcome, clinic visits, revisions, and costs.