Experience of reconstruction of the breast with the use of thoracodorsal flap

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze the results of treatment and the quality of medical care for breast cancer patients with breast reconstruction using thoracodorsal flap (TDF). Material and methods: The study was conducted on the basis of the N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology at the Department of Breast Tumors for the period 2016-2017. When using the reconstruction of the breast with the help of TDF the feature was the complete intersection of the muscle in the anterior-axillary line before closing the defect of the breast tissue but with the preservation of the thoracodorsal vascular sheaf. Surgical treatment was provided to 67 patients with breast cancer including after neoadjuvant therapy. Results: One-time reconstruction was performed in 16 (23.8%) patients under the organ-preserving surgery, mastectomy in two (2.9%) patients and mastectomy with implant place-ment in 27 (40.2%) patients. Delayed reconstruction of the breast: TDF in combination with the implant - 20 (29.8%), the use of TDF without an implant - 2 (2.9%) patients. Complications were observed in 6 (8.9%) patients. Conclusion: Reconstruction of the breast with TDF is the method of choice and priority for patients who underwent radiation therapy with a lack of integumentary tissues to cover the implant. TDF is a «good plastic material and could be used in patients with severe defect of breast shape after organ- preserving surgery and mastectomy. TDF is characterized by a low incidence of complications. The use of TDF does not worsen the rehabilitation of patients and does not shift the timing of adjuvant treatment.