[Effect of ultrasonic energy dissection technique in breast reconstruction with the autologous latissimus dorsi flap].
OBJECTIVE
To study the ultrasonic energy dissection technique in breast reconstruction with the autologous latissimus dorsi flap and to evaluate its effect on seroma formation and other postoperative complications.


METHODS
Prospective monocentric study, between October 2003 and April 2004, including all the patients with breast reconstruction with the autologous latissimus dorsi flap performed with Ultracision Harmonic Scalpel. The patients were followed daily for one month and postoperative drainage volume, seroma formation, local infection or other wound complications were noted.


RESULTS
Twenty-one patients, aged 47 to 62 years old, underwent breast reconstruction with this technique. The median operating time was 74 minutes. The median drainage volume was 102.2 ml/day for the first week, 58.1 ml/day for the second week, and 28.4 ml/day for the third week. The last drain was removed at the 25th day postoperatively, half of the patients were drain free at the 20th day. No blood transfusion was necessary. The postoperative complications were dehiscent scars in two patients, with a wound infection in one case. Only one patient (4.8%) required two seroma punctures.


CONCLUSIONS
The ultrasonic energy dissection technique in breast reconstruction was found to be an interesting alternative to the conventionnal scalpel with less seroma formation and no additional disadvantages.
Ceccaldi
P-F
PF
Service de Gynécologie et d'Obstétrique, CHU Louis-Mourier, 178, rue des Renouillers, 92701 Colombes Cedex. pfceccaldi@gmail.com
Ducarme
G
G
Kéré
D
D
Wernert
R
R
D015992:Body Mass Index; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D049291:Seroma / Q000453:epidemiology*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000453:epidemiology; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology