Long-Term Results after Autologous Breast Reconstruction with DIEP versus PAP Flaps Based on Quality of Life and Aesthetic Outcome Analysis

Abstract

(1) Background: This work aimed to conduct a comparative study, providing long-term data about patient-reported outcome measures and donor site scar assessments, as well as an aesthetic evaluation of the reconstructed breasts in patients with DIEP versus PAP flap breast reconstruction. (2) Methods: This prospective, single-center, matched cohort study included a total of 36 patients after DIEP and PAP flap breast reconstruction. The evaluation was carried out using the Breast-Q and POSAS questionnaire, as well as the Breast Aesthetic Scale for cosmetic analysis, by four plastic surgeons. (3) Results: The postoperative Breast-Q evaluation revealed no significant differences between both patient groups for the categories of the physical well-being of the donor site, the physical well-being of the breast, and satisfaction with the breast. A scar evaluation of the donor site region showed equivalent results for the thigh and abdomen regions, concerning the overall opinion of the patients and the observers. There was no significant difference between both methods of reconstruction for all aspects of breast aesthetics. (4) Conclusions: Similar results for donor site morbidity, scar quality, and the aesthetic outcome of the breasts in both the DIEP and PAP patient groups have been demonstrated. Hence, in those cases suitable for both types of reconstruction, the decision can be based on factors such as patients’ lifestyles, leisure activities, and preferences.

Similarity of Seroma Rate at the Medial Thigh following Free Flap Harvesting or Medial Thigh Lift: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…Finally, a total of 28 studies comprising 1,096 patients were included in the meta-analysis ( Table 1 ). Seventeen studies presented data on TMG flaps, 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 five studies on PAP flaps, 17 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 and six studies on MTL. 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 Nearly all studies (96%), except for the study by Candiani et al (1995), 7 were published after 2005.…”

“… 2 The seroma occurrence rate after free flap harvest from the medial thigh or thigh plasty ranges between 0% and 29% in the literature. 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 Patients with seroma experience discomfort and are at an elevated risk of developing wound complications such as infection, wound dehiscence, and necrosis. Additionally, seroma can contribute to an extended recovery period with prolonged aftercare treatment and, hence, higher medical expenses.…”