Breast reconstruction. Surgical options and patient selection.

Breast reconstruction has undergone a steady evolution since the introduction of the silicone gel prosthesis in the early 1960s. Current restrictions of the use of breast implants have increased the reliance on autologous tissue reconstruction. The improvement in the quality of breast reconstruction can be attributed in part to a refinement in mastectomy technique. There is an increasing emphasis on skin preservation, which makes it easier to match the remaining breast. In this paper, various methods, including tissue expansion, the latissimus dorsi flap, the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap, and free flaps, are described. The indications as well as potential complications for each methods also are discussed. Local recurrence after breast conservation generally necessitates a total mastectomy. Radiation fibrosis and endarteritis interfere with skin blood supply and impair wound healing. Reconstruction in this setting has a potential for increased operative morbidity. Treatment options, including techniques to reduce potential complications, are presented.