Destination Design msTRAM: For Greater Reconstructive Certainty

Abstract

Background:. Performing delayed reconstruction to a unilateral breast while simultaneously performing a balancing procedure on the contralateral side can be the most difficult situation to achieve symmetry. We present here a novel approach to free TRAM-based breast reconstruction using reverse planning and subunit principles with simultaneous balancing reduction mastopexy and immediate nipple reconstruction. Methods:. A retrospective chart review and a BREAST-Q questionnaire of a single surgeon’s practice was performed to compare revision rates and patient satisfaction following Destination Design msTRAM reconstruction compared with a historical cohort of patients who received traditional free TRAM reconstruction. Results:. The chart review identified 39 patients treated with the traditional unilateral technique from 1997 to 2004 and 88 patients treated with the novel unilateral technique from 2004 to 2017. Traditional technique patients had a breast revision rate of 64.1% and a nipple revision rate of 42.3% after secondary nipple reconstruction. Destination Design patients had a breast revision rate of 44.3% (P = 0.0394) and a nipple revision rate of 37.9% (P = 0.689) after primary nipple reconstruction. The BREAST-Q questionnaire was sent to nine traditional technique patients with 8 responses (89%), and 35 Destination Design patients with 25 responses (71%). Survey results showed that traditional technique and Destination Design patients had an overall breast satisfaction rate of 67.5% and 63.9%, respectively. Conclusions:. The Destination Design msTRAM breast reconstruction technique leads to a statistically significant reduction in breast flap revisions, and allows for equally accurate immediate nipple reconstruction compared with traditional methods with no additional complications. Overall patient satisfaction is comparable with both techniques.