Three-dimensional Analysis of How Radiation Affects Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) Flap Volume, Projection, and Position in Breast Cancer Reconstruction

Abstract

Three-dimensional analysis exhibited no statistical differences in projection or volume between irradiated DIEP flaps and nonirradiated controls. However, irradiated DIEP flaps were positioned higher on the chest wall, similar to observations in irradiated tissue expanders/implants. Patients were satisfied as measured by Breast Q. Immediate bilateral DIEP flap reconstructions can safely be performed with PMRT with satisfactory results.