Two-Stage Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Flap: Prepectoral versus Subpectoral Approach

Summary Background Latissimus flap with prosthetic breast reconstruction after mastectomy is an established method, particularly in patients who have failed breast conserving therapy. This study presents comparison of prepectoral and subpectoral approach for two-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction with latissimus flap. Methods A retrospective review of outcomes and complications was completed between the prepectoral group (n= 33 patients, 50 reconstructed breasts) and subpectoral group (n= 22 patients, 36 reconstructed breasts). Results The demographics were similar between the prepectoral and subpectoral groups in terms of mean age (52.4 vs 52.5 years, p= 0.97), smoking history (15.1 vs 13.6 percent; p=1.00), radiation history (75.8 vs 91.0 percent; p=0.28), and mean length of follow up (479 vs 680 days; p=0.07). The body mass index was significantly higher in the prepectoral group (27.6 vs 25.2 kg/m2; p=0.03). Complications were similar between the groups in terms of hematoma (9.1 vs 0.0 percent, p=0.26), infection resulting in implant failure (9.1 vs 4.5 percent, p=0.64), thromboembolic events (3.0 vs 4.5 percent, p=1.0), donor site seroma (66.7 vs 40.9 percent, p=0.09), breast seroma (18.2 vs 27.3 percent, p=0.51), capsular contracture (9.1 vs 4.5 percent, p=0.64), animation deformity (39.4 vs 50.0 percent, p=0.58) and reoperation (24.2 vs 22.8 percent, p=1.00). Patient satisfaction scores were also similar between the groups (4.33 ± 1.08 vs 4.14 ± 1.13, p= 0.52). Conclusions Prepectoral approach for two-stage immediate prosthetic reconstruction with latissimus flap results in similar outcomes and complications compared to the subpectoral approach, yet obviating the need for any pectoralis major muscle dissection.