[Which breast reconstruction procedure provides the best long-term satisfaction?].

INTRODUCTION

Patient satisfaction is a good indicator to evaluate the success of breast reconstruction. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term satisfaction in patients who underwent four breast reconstruction techniques.

PATIENT AND METHODS

Self-evaluation was achieved by patients in 147 breast reconstructions using a four-point score: very disappointed, disappointed, satisfied and very satisfied. The mean follow-up was 5.3 year (1 to 21.5 year). The surgical procedures used were: transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (TRAM) 15%, autologous latissimus dorsi flap (ALD) 14%, latissimus dorsi flap with implant (LDI) 32% and implant alone 39%. Patients' satisfaction was compared regarding the type of surgical procedure, the postoperative follow-up time; the immediate or delayed breast reconstruction and the radiation history.

RESULTS

Thirty-five percent of the patients were very satisfied with their operation, 54% were satisfied, 7% were disappointed and 4% very disappointed. After a 5-year follow-up, autologous flaps showed better results (P<0.001). Patients were more satisfied with TRAM flaps than with surgical techniques using latissimus dorsi flaps (ALD and LDI). Patients treated with implants alone were statistically less satisfied. Only in the implant series, patient satisfaction decreased significantly with time (P<0.001) and preoperative radiation (P=0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Flap-based breast reconstructions show consistent long-term satisfaction although the surgery is initially more demanding. Our study matches the latest trends in the use of free perforator flaps for breast reconstruction. Indeed, these procedures combine good satisfaction and minor sequelae at the donor site.