Breast Reconstruction

Abstract

Oncologic reconstruction of head and neck cancers, breast cancers, and trunk and extremity cancers has become routine in most academic and larger community medical centers. Reconstruction of many of these oncologic defects can be performed using either autogenous tissue or alloplastic materials. Although there are usually clear indications for the use of either of these basic methods, autogenous reconstructions are usually preferred. Autogenous tissue has the advantage of “replacing like with like,” creating a more natural reconstructive result with long-term predictability. Autogenous reconstructions are less likely to result in late infectious sequellae including wound infection, implant exposure, and implant failure as can be seen in alloplastic reconstructions. For breast reconstruction, two primary methods of reconstruction exist: implant reconstruction and autogenous reconstruction. Although there are relative contraindications for each of these methods in selected patients, most patients are candidates for either method.