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J Reconstr Microsurg 2002; 18(7): 595-598
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-35098
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Easy Venous Superdrainage in DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Through the Intercostal Branch

Emilio Garcia Tutor1 , Cristina Auba1 , Alberto Benito2 , Gregorio Rábago3 , Willy Kreutler4
  • 1Department of Reparative and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, University Clinic, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
  • 2Department of Radiology, University Clinic, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
  • 3Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Clinic, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
  • 4Visiting Medical Student, Universidad de la Sabana, Bogota, Colombia
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Publication History

Publication Date:
29 October 2002 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap has been shown to be a valid option for breast reconstruction, as it has certain advantages over the free TRAM flap, including lower morbidity in the donor area, conservation of abdominal wall function, and reduced postoperative pain. However, some cases of venous congestion in using the DIEP flap have been described. The authors present a case in which the venous return in a DIEP flap objectively (by measurment with a flux meter) presented a marked improvement (from 4 ml/min to 13.9 ml/min) after venous drainage was increased by means of the supplementary anastomosis of a comitant vein from the deep inferior epigastric pedicle to the intercostal branch of the internal mammary vein. The preservation of this branch is a simple and effective technique to improve the venous drainage of DIEP flaps, whether signs of congestion are present or not.

KEYWORDS

DIEP flap - breast reconstruction - venous drainage - internal mammary - venous congestion

REFERENCES

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