Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open · 2015 · 41 citations · 14 references
MedicinePlastic SurgerySurgeryBiomedical ImagingReconstructive SurgeryTissue Engineering3D PrintingBreast ReconstructionBreast SurgeryFlap DesignFlap ReconstructionThree-dimensional Reconstruction3D Printed Surgical ModelsDeep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap ReconstructionMicrosurgical Breast ReconstructionPedicle Flap SurgerySoft Tissue Volume MeasurementSurface ImagingThree-dimensional Breast ImagingThree-dimensional Printing For Reconstruction
Recent advances in 3-dimensional (3D) surface imaging technologies allow for digital quantification of complex breast tissue. We performed 11 unilateral breast reconstructions with deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flaps (5 immediate, 6 delayed) using 3D surface imaging for easier surgery planning and 3D-printed molds for shaping the breast neoparenchyma. A single- or double-pedicle flap was preoperatively planned according to the estimated tissue volume required and estimated total flap volume. The DIEP flap was then intraoperatively shaped with a 3D-printed mold that was based on a horizontally inverted shape of the contralateral breast. Cosmetic outcomes were assessed as satisfactory, as confirmed by the postoperative 3D measurements of bilateral breasts. We believe that DIEP flap reconstruction assisted with 3D surface imaging and a 3D-printed mold is a simple and quick method for rebuilding a symmetric breast.
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