Comparison of Phasix, polypropylene, and primary closure of the abdominal donor site after bilateral free flap breast reconstruction: Long-term evaluation of abdominal hernia and bulge formation.

Background: Abdominal free flap harvest for breast reconstruction may result in significant morbidity in terms of hernias and bulges. Reinforcement of the donor site with mesh has been recommended to minimize the risk of hernias and bulges, but no studies exist evaluating the optimal type of mesh. Polypropylene has traditionally been used but the development of Phasix restorable mesh may be a reasonable alternative.

Attitudes and Decisional Conflict Regarding Breast Reconstruction Among Breast Cancer Patients.

Background: The decision to undergo breast reconstruction (BR) surgery after mastectomy is made during stressful circumstances. Many women do not feel well prepared to make this decision.

Objective: Using the Ottawa Decision Support Framework, this study aims to describe women's reasons to choose or not choose BR, BR knowledge, decisional preparedness, and decisional conflict about BR.

Long-Term Operative Outcomes of Preoperative Computed Tomography-Guided Virtual Surgical Planning for Osteocutaneous Free Flap Mandible Reconstruction.

Background: Osteocutaneous free flaps have become the primary reconstructive modality for segmental mandibulectomy defects. The advent of preoperative virtual surgical planning with stereolithic models and cutting templates has led to significant refinements in operative technique. In this article, the authors examine the value of computed tomography-guided preoperative virtual surgical planning on operative outcomes and efficiency after mandibular reconstruction with osteocutaneous free flaps.

Time to Surgery and Breast Cancer Survival in the United States.

Importance: Time to surgery (TTS) is of concern to patients and clinicians, but controversy surrounds its effect on breast cancer survival. There remains little national data evaluating the association.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between the time from diagnosis to breast cancer surgery and survival, using separate analyses of 2 of the largest cancer databases in the United States.