Modified Lateral Intercostal Artery Perforator Flap: Is it Technically Feasible and Cosmetically Sound?.

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University Hospital, Egypt

Abstract

Introduction: When possible, breast conserving surgery (BCS) is used to treat breast cancer rather than
mastectomy. Asymmetry and abnormalities of the breast’s shape have been linked to the removal of malignancies in
the breast’s lateral region. One volume replacement procedure with favorable cosmetic results is lateral intercostal
artery perforator flaps (LICAP). Our adaptation of the traditional LICAP does not require the patient to be moved,
provides adequate access to the axilla, and leaves a less noticeable scar.
Patients and methods: Twenty patients who received BCS with immediate reconstruction utilizing modified
lateral intercostal artery perforator flaps were included in this study. Ultrasonography was used to mark the
perforators. The defect was filled using a flap after a thorough local excision and axillary dissection.
Results: We performed modified LICAP flaps on 20 patients. The follow-up period was six to twenty-four months.
Four individuals had tumors measuring less than 2 cm (T1), and 13 patients had tumors in the lower-outer
quadrants. Three patients experienced complications, including fat necrosis in one and wound dehiscence in two.
Conservative treatment was used in all complications, with positive outcomes. There were no reports of wound
infections or flap loss. No signs of tumor metastasis or recurrence were found during our follow-up.
Conclusion: Because it has minimal donor site morbidity and eliminates the need for muscle transfer, the modified
LICAP is beneficial. Selecting the right patient, working with the oncological team to plan, and intraoperative
caution during surgery are all essential to success.

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