Emerging trends in microsurgical breast reconstruction: deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) and the superior gluteal artery perforator (SGAP) flaps.

Overview

Breast reconstruction is an important adjunct in the treatment of breast cancer. Many reconstructive options exist, however autologous tissue remains the gold standard. One drawback to autologous reconstruction methods is the potential for flap donor site morbidity. Recent advances in microsurgical techniques include the development of perforator flaps, including the Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator flap (DIEP) and the Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator (SGAP) flaps. Harvest of these flaps attempt to minimize the impact on the donor site and thereby reduce the incidence of donor site complications. This article will review of the indications, advantages and drawbacks to the use of perforator flaps in breast reconstruction surgery.