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Semin Plast Surg 2018; 32(01): 036-041
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1632402
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Combining Autologous Breast Reconstruction and Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer

Edward I. Chang
1   Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
,
Jaume Masià
2   Department of Plastic Surgery, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
,
Mark L. Smith
3   Division of Plastic Surgery, Northwell Health System, Lake Success, New York
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
09 April 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Breast cancer patients are at risk for developing postmastectomy lymphedema syndrome of the ipsilateral upper extremity following treatment for breast cancer in the setting of an axillary dissection, postoperative radiation, and chemotherapy. For patients suffering from lymphedema who are also seeking breast reconstruction, combining an autologous abdominal free flap with a vascularized inguinal lymph node transfer provides patients the opportunity to have an aesthetic breast reconstruction as well as the potential to improve their lymphedema in a single operation. The present article aims to provide a description of the salient features of this approach including the preoperative preparation, the surgical technique, the postoperative management and complications, and a summary of the outcomes.

Keywords

vascularized lymph node transfer - breast reconstruction and lymph node transfer - breast free flap and lymphedema surgery - DIEP flap and lymph node transfer
 

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