Effects of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy on Autologous and Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Literature.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is a standard modality of treatment for breast cancer. The exposure of patients to drugs that effect the cells and processes involved in healing prior to reconstructive surgical procedures is a source of concern for reconstructive surgeons. The reported effects of NAC on autologous and tissue expander to implant-based breast reconstruction vary from study to study and have not been comprehensively reviewed on a large scale.

Microsurgery in the Sickle Cell Trait Population: Can it Be Safely and Successfully Performed?

Free-tissue transfer reconstruction in patients with sickle cell anemia risks failure due to polymerization of sickle hemoglobin within the flap microcirculation. However, outcomes vary, as the amount of polymerization is dependent on factors such as disease phenotype/diagnosis, degree of hypoxia, and intracellular dehydration. Most of the literature focuses on patients with sickle cell disease, which produces higher concentrations of sickle hemoglobin and, therefore, is a contraindication to microvascular reconstruction.