Background Three-dimensional (3D) model printing improves visualization of anatomical structures in space compared to two-dimensional (2D) data and creates an exact model of the surgical site that can be used for reference during surgery. There is limited evidence on the effects of using 3D models in microsurgical reconstruction on improving clinical outcomes.Methods A retrospective review of patients undergoing reconstructive breast microsurgery procedures from 2017 to 2019 who received computed tomography angiography (CTA) scans only or with 3D models for preoperative surgical planning were performed. Preoperative decision-making to undergo a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) versus muscle-sparing transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (MS-TRAM) flap, as well as whether the decision changed during flap harvest and postoperative complications were tracked based on the preoperative imaging used. In addition, we describe three example cases showing direct application of 3D mold as an accurate model to guide intraoperative dissection in complex microsurgical reconstruction.Results Fifty-eight abdominal-based breast free-flaps performed using conventional CTA were compared with a matched cohort of 58 breast free-flaps performed with 3D model print. There was no flap loss in either group. There was a significant reduction in flap harvest time with use of 3D model (CTA vs. 3D, 117.7±14.2 minutes vs. 109.8±11.6 minutes; P=0.001). In addition, there was no change in preoperative decision on type of flap harvested in all cases in 3D print group (0%), compared with 24.1% change in conventional CTA group.Conclusions Use of 3D print model improves accuracy of preoperative planning and reduces flap harvest time with similar postoperative complications in complex microsurgical reconstruction.

Surgical treatment of advanced lymphedema is challenging and outcomes are suboptimal. Physiologic procedures including lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) improve lymphatic flow but cannot reverse fibrofatty tissue deposition, whereas liposuction removes fibrofatty tissue but cannot prevent disease progression. The adjunctive use of nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds (BioBridge^TM) can promote lymphangiogenesis. We report a treatment algorithm utilizing a multimodality approach to achieve sustained normal limb volumes in patients with stage II-III lymphedema. A retrospective review of late stage II-III lymphedema patients treated with liposuction, physiologic procedures, and BioBridge^TM from 2016 through 2019 was conducted. Treatment outcome in the form of excess volume reduction is reported. Total of 14 patients underwent surgical treatment of late stage II and III lymphedema according to our triple therapy algorithm. Patients had a baseline median volume excess of 29% (19.8, 43.3%). The median volume excess was improved to 0.5% (−4.3, 3.8%) at 14.4 months from the first stage surgery (p < 0.05) and further improved to −1.0% (−3.3, 1.3%) after triple therapy with BB placement at 24.6 months. A triple therapy surgical treatment algorithm can optimize outcomes and achieve sustained normalization of limb volume in late stage II-III lymphedema. The incorporation of nanofibrillar collagen scaffold technology allows for improved and sustained volume reduction.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is increasingly being performed for women diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as those with a genetic predisposition to developing breast cancer. Techniques include implant-based or autologous tissue reconstruction where the abdominal soft tissue is most commonly used. As more women seek to avoid the use of implants, minimize donor site morbidity, and desire a natural-appearing breast after reconstruction, an alternative to the standard approaches is needed. The omentum has historically been used as a pedicled flap for surgical defects or infection. It has been used for breast reconstruction, but primarily as a pedicled flap and for treatment of partial breast defects. To optimize the use of the omentum for breast reconstruction, a novel technique using an omental fat-augmented free flap (O-FAFF) has recently been reported. This approach allows 360 degrees of freedom in positioning the autologous tissue reconstruction while also increasing the volume of the autologous free flap using fat grafting. An acellular dermal matrix (ADM) mold is used to provide structure. The result is an augmented appearance that feels similar to biologic soft tissue. This review discusses the evolution of breast reconstruction using the omentum and the potential increasing role that the O-FAFF may have in breast reconstruction.

Background: The ReSurge Global Training Program (RGTP) is a model for building reconstructive surgery capacity in low- and middle-income countries. ¹ The aim of this study is to assess attitudes toward social media, to develop an initial RGTP Facebook Education Group, and to assess the early results of the group’s implementation. Methods: A survey of the RGTP community assessed group demographic, interests, concerns, and familiarity with Facebook from July to August of 2018. A “secret” Facebook group was launched on October 30, 2018. Narrated lectures were posted weekly to the group. Educational cases were shared on the group’s discussion page. Facebook “Group Insights” and individual post review were used to obtain group statistics. Results: Senior faculty were less likely to have an existing Facebook account (58% vs 93%, P < 0.05). Trainees were more confident using Facebook (97% vs 54%, P < 0.05) and favored viewing the training curriculum through Facebook (93.0%, P < 0.05). At 6 months, the group enrolled 103 members from 14 countries. Twenty-two lectures were posted, obtaining an average of 59.4 views (range, 36–78). Fourteen cases were presented for group discussion with an average of 61.1 views (range, 43–87). Conclusions: The RGTP Facebook group has continued to expand in its early months. This group allows our community to view RGTP’s training curriculum, while providing global access to expert opinion and collaboration. The secret Facebook group can be used as an effective and easy-to-use platform for educational outreach in global reconstructive surgery.