PRESERVATION OF THE NIPPLE-AREOLA COMPLEX AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LATISSIMUS DORSI FLAP IN MAMMARY RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract

Introduction: Non-metastatic breast cancer may need surgery and radiation. Mastectomy is one of them,in which the nipple-areola complex (NAC) can be preserved. Breast reconstruction is complementary and can use alloplastic methods, or autologous methods such as the latissimus dorsi flap (LDF).Objective: To demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of LDF in breast reconstruction with NAC preservation. Method: Review of 2 clinical and surgical records. Results: The use of LDF in breast reconstruction in two patients undergoing mastectomy with NAC preservation.Discussion: The transverse myocutaneous flap of the rectus abdominis muscle is desencourge in certain situations, such as radiation or previous abdominoplasty; LDF is an alternative and superior option due to its good vascularization.Conclusion: Low complications rate, quality results and satisfaction make LDF favorable for post mastectomy patients with NAC preservation.