Use of the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization during breast reduction surgery.

BACKGROUND

Many modern techniques of breast reduction require that a pedicle of breast tissue be deepithelialized. The process of deepithelialization is both tedious and time consuming. Many techniques have been described to facilitate the process of deepithelialization in breast reduction, but none have replaced the gold standard of using the scalpel. This series details the authors' results using the VersaJet Hydrosurgery System for pedicle deepithelialization in breast reduction surgery.

METHODS

In this study, 20 patients underwent inferior pedicle breast reduction using the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization between September 2006 and June 2007. The overall time required for pedicle deepithelialization using the VersaJet was compared with the average overall time required for deepithelialization using the scalpel. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

An overall time-savings of 10 to 25 min per case was noted using the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization rather than the scalpel. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were encountered due to use of the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization.

CONCLUSIONS

The VersaJet is a safe and effective tool for pedicle deepithelialization in breast reduction surgery. The VersaJet significantly facilitates the process of pedicle deepithelialization and requires less time than use of the scalpel for the procedure.