IMMEDIATE BREAST RECONSTRUCTION WITH LATISSIMUS DORSI MUSCULOCUTANEOUS FLAP: A SUITABLE OPTION FOR CHINESE WOMEN AFTER MASTECTOMY

Objective: To discuss the suitable immediate breast reconstruction modalities for Chinese patients by comparing the pedicled transverse rectus abdominis myocytaneous flap (TRAM) reconstruction with latissimus dorsi myocytaneous flap (LTD) reconstruction plus implants or not after mastectomy due to breast cancer. Methods: From Jan. 2000 to Jul. 2005, 74 staged 0-II patients (mean age 39) were performed immediate breast reconstruction with autologous tissue either using LTD flaps or pedicled TRAM flaps with supplemental implants when necessary after mastectomy due to breast cancer and the charts were reviewed. Results: The age, marriage and menses status did not affect the selection of modalities and the need of implants. In 74 patients, 62 cases (83.8%) were performed LTD reconstruction with 13 implants and 12 cases received TRAM with 1 implant. The difference in need of implants or not between the two modalities had no statistical significance (P=0.442, Fisher’ exact test). Aesthetic results judged as good or fair were in 88% patients and the cosmetic effects between LTD and TRAM groups or implant and non-implant groups had no differences. All reconstructions were successful, with 4.1% cumulative locoregional recurrence and 100% overall survival by following up to 66 months (median 9 months). The DFS and RFS between the two modalities had no significant differences by log rank test. Conclusion: Immediate autologous tissue reconstruction makes it possible to regain the natural and symmetric contour of breast without increased local recurrence. The LTD flap reconstruction is a suitable option for most Chinese women as well as the pedicled TRAM flap.