[Effects of tobacco smoking on the incidence of flap necrosis after mastectomy].

One hundred and fifty-nine women undergoing mastectomy (simple or modified radical) were followed for the development of flap necrosis. The incidence of flap necrosis was found to 14%. The only significant risk factor for the development of flap necrosis was found to be smoking, which increased the risk by 4.9 times. The effects of nicotine and carbon monoxide, the two principal known detrimental factors in tobacco smoke, are described. Prophylactic efforts are advised.