Comparative Study: Role of Handheld Doppler with Complementary Duplex Ultrasonography in Planning of Perforator Flaps for Reduction Mammoplasty

Abstract

Background: The aim of reduction mammoplasty is to reposition the NAC with adequate projection by basing the NAC on a reliable pedicle that provides good vascularity, preserves sensory innervation and enables post-operative breastfeeding. Aim of Study: The purpose of this study is to introduce a breast reduction technique designed to reduce the incidence of post-operative nipple-areola complex ischemia and necrosis following reduction mammoplasty by using handheld doppler in detection of perforators and compare it s finding with complementary color duplex ultrasonography. Subjects and Methods: The study included 10 patients that underwent reduction mammoplasty. The average body mass index of our patients was 33.4. The average suprasternal notch to nipple distance was 41.3cm. The average resection weight per side was 1324.6g. Results: None of the cases experienced NAC necrosis. Conclusion: The pedicle constructed with the aid of preoperative perforator identification with a Doppler and compare it s finding with complimentary color duplex ultrasonography is an effective technique for breast reduction that results in a very low rate of post-operative ischemia and necrosis of the nipple-areola complex.