[Application of internal mammary perforator as recipient vessels in immediate breast reconstruction using deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps in early breast cancer].

Objective

To investigate the clinical application of internal mammary perforator (IMP) as recipient vessels in immediate breast reconstruction using deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap.

Methods

The clinical data of 10 patients with early breast cancer who underwent DIEP for immediate breast reconstruction using IMP as the recipient vessels from January 2022 to December 2023 were analyzed. The number, position, and diameter of IMP, diameter of DIEP, the size of the flap, the operation time, surgical complications, cosmetic effect of breast, and patients' satisfaction were summarized and analyzed.

Results

The number of IMPs was 2-3, and they were distributed in the second to the fourth ribs. The diameter of the IMP artery was (1.15±0.22) mm, and the diameter of the vein was (1.35±0.19) mm. The diameter of the DIEP was (1.55±0.28) mm, and that of its accompanying vein was (1.50±0.23) mm. The sizes of the flaps ranged from 10.0 cm×8.0 cm×3.0 cm to 12.0 cm×22.0 cm×4.0 cm, with an average of 20.5 cm×11.2 cm×2.8 cm. The weight of the flap was (389.1±51.5) g. The operation time was (574.8±68.1) min. All 10 cases of flaps survived. The reconstructed breasts were natural, soft, and symmetrical to the healthy side breasts. There was no obvious operative complication. The average BREAST-Q score of the patients was 93.5. No recurrence or metastasis was found during follow-up.

Conclusions

Although technically difficult, using IMP as recipient vessels in DIEP flats for immediate breast reconstruction results in a low complication rate of the injuries in the internal mammary region. Under the premise of strictly adhering to the surgical indications, satisfactory results can be achieved, and it is safe and reliable.