Implementation and Analysis of a Lean Six Sigma Program in Microsurgery to Improve Operative Throughput in Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction.

Purpose: Perforator flaps have become a preferred method of breast reconstruction but can consume considerable resources. We examined the impact of a Six Sigma program on microsurgical breast reconstruction at an academic medical center.

Methods: Using methods developed by Motorola and General Electric, we applied critical pathway planning, workflow analysis, lean manufacturing, continuous quality improvement, and defect reduction to microsurgical breast reconstruction.