Indocyanine Green Angiography in Breast Reconstruction: Utility, Limitations, and Search for Standardization

Using ICG to Streamline Perforator Selection in DIEP Flap Reconstruction: Retrospective cohort study of outcomes in our first one hundred flaps

The use of indocyanine green in conjunction with near infra-red fluoroscopy as an adjunct to the clinical assessment of tissue perfusion is now well established.1-3 Its intraoperative use in breast reconstruction with deep inferior epigastric (DIEP) flaps has been described since 2009.4-6 Fat necrosis is commonly encountered in the recovery period. This study reports on our step-by-step practical technique of using indocyanine green (ICG) to streamline perforator choice intraoperatively during DIEP flap raising for breast reconstruction and our rates of fat necrosis (8%) and flap survival (100%) within the first 100 flaps in our regional reconstruction unit. We discuss the benefits and pitfalls of using ICG fluoroscopy at various stages of breast reconstruction with free DIEP flaps. This study has been reported using the STROBE guidelines.

Application of Indocyanine Green Angiography for Perfusion Assessment of Buccal Myomucosal Flaps

The indications for buccal myomucosal flaps (BMMFs) include velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) and palatal fistula. A major complication related to BMMF is partial flap necrosis due to its random blood supply. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography is a proven technology to assess tissue perfusion, but there is limited report of its application to intraoral flaps, especially in cleft surgery. Two patients underwent BMMF for repair of palatal fistula and treatment of VPI. ICG angiography was performed to assess flap perfusion after flap elevation and again after flap inset. Patients were followed up for flap healing and speech assessments. In the first patient, ICG angiography confirmed excellent perfusion to both flaps after elevation and inset. In contrast, after elevation of bilateral BMMF in the second patient, ICG angiography identified excellent perfusion of the left BMMF but poor perfusion of the right BMMF. Debridement of the right flap was performed, and palatal reconstruction was completed with unilateral BMMF. Both patients healed uneventfully and had improvement in their hypernasality. In summary, ICG angiography can be a useful adjunct to assess the perfusion of BMMF during palatal reconstruction for VPI and/or palatal fistula. This intraoperative assessment may help to guide surgical decision-making with the aim of potentially reducing rates of flap necrosis and palatal fistula.

The Utility of Indocyanine Green Near-Infrared Fluoroangiographyin Assessing Mastectomy Skin Flap Perfusion

Background: Breast reconstruction with implants is now the preferred procedure following mastectomies. For successful reconstruction, accurate evaluation of the patient and skin flap viability is essential. This study aimed to analyze the impact of risk factors on mastectomy skin flap necrosis (MSFN) and the effectiveness of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) in preventing complications. Methods: Fifty consecutive patients undergoing mastectomy were divided into two groups (arms A and B) based on the method of skin flap evaluation (ICGA vs. clinical assessment, respectively). Demographic details and the risk factor incidence were collected, and complication rates were compared between the two groups. Univariate analysis was conducted to identify correlations between mastectomy skin flap necrosis and the aforementioned risk factors. Results: The two groups showed comparable demographics and incidences of risk factors. Patients in arm A exhibited a lower rate of complications and reinterventions, although no significant differences were observed. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between BMI, implant volume, and MSFN. Conclusions: ICGA proves to be an effective diagnostic tool for assessing skin flap viability. When coupled with meticulous patient selection, it aids in preventing complications.

Current status of autologous breast reconstruction in Argentina

Although the most common procedure for breast reconstruction in Argentina is tissue expansion and implant devices, autologous tissue is frequently utilized. Deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap (DIEP) is the gold standard for autologous breast reconstruction and, whenever possible, it is the first option. However, there are clinical or other circumstances, when a local or vicinity flaps for autologous reconstruction is preferred, even if exists a surgical and hospital facility for doing microsurgical procedures. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe our experience with the use of local and vicinity flaps for volume and surface replacement in different requirements-autologous breast reconstructions post oncologic resections, volume replacement in weight loss patients and implant-explantation cases. We have utilized the modification of latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap (LD) described by Hammond with excellent results and high patient satisfaction. Thoraco-dorsal artery perforator flap is indicated on skin sparing mastectomies (SSMs), immediate reconstruction of the nipple areolar complex and simultaneous coverage of an implant or tissue expander, in irradiated or to be irradiated patients. Lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP) flap has gained popularity because the unique position of the perforator at the lower lateral corner of the breast. It allows harvesting immediate vicinity tissue and easy rotation to the breast mound. We have used a modification towards the lateral thoracic wall of the anterior intercostal artery perforator flap for volume reconstruction after implant explantation.in patients who required volume preservation. Medial intercostal artery perforator flap is advantageous whenever the sub-mammary tissue can be used deepithelialized for volume reconstruction with a medial base. The same submammary area harvested as a medially based flap can be irrigated by the LICAP as a reverse LICAP flap that might be designed toward any direction from the piercing point of its perforator. The rest of the donor areas described for breast autologous reconstruction are rarely reported. When surgical facilities and adequate surgical teams are available, the lower abdominal wall is the main donor area, and DIEP, the most common technique utilized.

Breast Reconstruction in Patients with Prior Breast Augmentation: Searching for the Optimal Reconstructive Option

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer in patients with prior breast augmentation poses unique challenges for detection, diagnosis, and management. Mastectomy rates are increasing, and patients with prior augmentation often have a lower body mass index, making autologous techniques unsuitable. This study aims to assess the best reconstructive option in patients with a history of subglandular or dual-plane breast augmentation. Materials and methods: A prospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Patients with subglandular or dual-plane breast augmentation were included. Patients were divided into submuscular breast reconstruction (Group 2) or prepectoral breast reconstruction (Group 1) groups. Demographic and surgical data were collected. Results: A total of 47 patients were included, with 23 in Group 1 and 24 in Group 2. Complications occurred in 11 patients (23.4%), with significant differences between groups. The most common complication was seroma formation. Implant loss occurred in 4.3% of cases in Group 1, while no implant loss was observed in Group 2. Patient-reported satisfaction scores were similar between groups at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Subpectoral breast reconstruction with a tissue expander seems a safer and effective technique for patients with prior breast augmentation. It resulted in fewer complications. This approach should be considered as an option for breast reconstruction after mastectomy in this cohort of patients.

Mastectomy Skin Flap Perfusion Assessment Prior to Breast Reconstruction: A Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Predicting the viability of the skin flaps after mastectomy is of high importance and significance in immediate breast reconstruction. Numerous methods have been used and are readily available. This review aims to describe and compare the current preferred perfusion assessment tools.

METHODS

Four major scientific databases-Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus-were consulted to retrieve reviews, meta-analyses, clinical trials, experimental studies, and case reports focused on skin flap perfusion assessment following mastectomy. English-language articles published within the last 10 years were included. The most recent search was conducted on 31 July 2024.

RESULTS

A summary focused on the relevant information of all included studies was drafted, and the results of the studies have been synthetized and compared. A total of 58 studies have been included in this review.

CONCLUSION

Indocyanine green angiography (ICG-A) is the preferred and most-used method of evaluating perfusion, especially in high-risk patients, while new technologies show promising results and might be of great interest in the future. Perfusion assessment tools complement and should not replace clinical evaluation.

Tissue perfusion in DIEP flaps using Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography, Hyperspectral imaging, and Thermal imaging

Flap necrosis continues to occur in skin free flap autologous breast reconstruction. Therefore, we investigated the benefits of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) using quantitative parameters for the objective, perioperative evaluation of flap perfusion. In addition, we investigated the feasibility of hyperspectral (HSI) and thermal imaging (TI) for postoperative flap monitoring. A single-center, prospective observational study was performed on 15 patients who underwent deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction (n=21). DIEP-flap perfusion was evaluated using ICGA, HSI, and TI using a standardized imaging protocol. The ICGA perfusion curves and derived parameters, HSI extracted oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) and deoxyhemoglobin (deoxyHb) values, and flap temperatures from TI were analyzed and correlated to the clinical outcomes. Post-hoc quantitative analysis of intraoperatively collected data of ICGA application accurately distinguished between adequately and insufficiently perfused DIEP flaps. ICG perfusion curves identified the lack of arterial inflow (n=2) and occlusion of the venous outflow (n=1). In addition, a postoperatively detected partial flap epidermolysis could have been predicted based on intraoperative quantitative ICGA data. During postoperative monitoring, HSI was used to identify impaired perfusion areas within the DIEP flap based on deoxyHb levels. The results of this study showed a limited added value of TI. Quantitative, post-hoc analysis of ICGA data produced objective and reproducible parameters that enabled the intraoperative detection of arterial and venous congested DIEP flaps. HSI appeared to be a promising technique for postoperative flap perfusion assessment. A diagnostic accuracy study is needed to investigate ICGA and HSI parameters in real-time and demonstrate their clinical benefit.

The intraoperative application of indocyanine green, in breast reconstructive surgery using a latissimus dorsi flap, as a preventive factor for tissue ischemia and postoperative complications

<b>Introduction:</b> Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women. Nowadays, more and more women decide to undergo breast reconstruction using both implants and autologous flaps. The most important factor in avoiding bad wound healing is the preservation of blood supply and good tissue perfusion. Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction is a commonly used method, mainly reserved for irradiated patients, delayed reconstructions, or salvage procedures. With damaged tissues, objectively assessing the conditions is much more difficult than in primary surgery.<b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study is to present the intraoperative application of indocyanine green (ICG), in breast reconstructive surgery with a LD flap, as a preventive factor for tissue ischemia and postoperative complications.<b>Materials and methods:</b> A single-center retrospective review of the outcomes of 12 patients who underwent breast reconstruction using an LD flap, with an intraoperative assessment of flap blood supply using ICG. Patient characteristics, comorbidities, and smoking habit were taken into account.<b>Results:</b> In two cases, after an initial assessment of tissue perfusion, it was decided to resect the distal part of the flap with less blood supply. All reconstructions were successful and the wounds healed properly. None of the patients required reoperation and there were no postoperative complications or surgical site infections.<b>Conclusions:</b> The use of ICG in breast reconstruction with an LD flap is an important predictor of postoperative complications, especially flap necrosis and loss of reconstruction.

Postmastectomy dual-plane submuscular-subcutaneous implant-based reconstruction: a series of 100 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

Advances in cancer knowledge and surgical techniques over the last decades have enabled plastic surgeons to use muscle-sparing procedures and more conservative approaches for implant-based reconstructions. In this paper, the authors describe an innovative subpectoral/subcutaneous implant pocket that represents an evolution of the classical submuscular technique and they report on the first consecutive hundred patients undergoing this procedure.

METHODS

Between April 2019 and May 2022, 100 consecutive patients underwent immediate postmastectomy implant-based reconstruction using the subpectoral/subcutaneous space, for a total of 122 procedures. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed and patients were prospectively followed. During plastic consultations, medical photographs were taken and aesthetic outcomes were scored with patients.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 18 months (range 6-46). Implant loss was observed in two patients (2%). Early minor complications were registered in 19 patients. A total of 80 out of 100 patients completed satisfaction survey assessing their postoperative outcomes. Results were considered satisfactory or very satisfactory by the surgeons and patients in more than 90% of cases.

CONCLUSION

The submuscular/subcutaneous pocket can be considered a new tool in the armamentarium of reconstructive procedures, in between submuscular/subfascial procedures and prepectoral ones. It is a one-stage procedure, its a simple and short time surgery, reproducible, its very well accepted by patients. It has specific indications, advantages, and drawbacks, a careful indication and an accurate surgical technique are mandatory to achieve good results.

Two-Stage Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Using Intraoperative Fluorescence Imaging: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

Limited comparability between study groups can generate significant selection and observer bias when evaluating the efficacy of the SPY system and fluorescence imaging for implant-based breast reconstruction. In this study, the authors compared the surgical outcomes and complications during the first stage of reconstruction between reconstructions evaluated intraoperatively with fluorescence imaging using the SPY system and clinical assessment using a matched analysis.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing total mastectomy and immediate two-stage implant-based breast reconstruction with TEs from January of 2011 to December of 2020. The rate of complication, time for TE-to-implant exchange, and time to start radiotherapy were compared between groups (intraoperative fluorescence imaging versus clinical assessment) using a propensity score-matched analysis.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, 198 reconstructions were evaluated. There were 99 reconstructions in each group. The median time for TE-to-implant exchange (140 days versus 185 days; P = 0.476) and time to initiate adjuvant radiotherapy (144 days versus 98 days; P = 0.199) were comparable between groups. The 30-day rate of wound-related complications (21% versus 9%; P = 0.017) and 30-day rate of wound-related unplanned interventions were significantly higher in reconstructions evaluated with clinical assessment when compared with the SPY system (16% versus 5%; P = 0.011). A higher 30-day rate of seroma (19% versus 14%; P = 0.041) and hematoma (8% versus 0%; P = 0.004) were found in reconstructions assessed intraoperatively with the SPY system.

CONCLUSIONS

After matching, reconstructions evaluated with fluorescence imaging exhibited a lower incidence of early wound-related complications when compared with clinical evaluation alone. Nonetheless, the Wise pattern for mastectomy was found to be the only independent predictor associated with early wound-related complications.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Evolution of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence in Breast and Axilla Surgery: An Australasian Experience

The evolution of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence in breast and axilla surgery from an Australasian perspective is discussed in this narrative review with a focus on breast cancer and reconstruction surgery. The authors have nearly a decade of experience with ICG in a high-volume institution, which has resulted in publications and ongoing future research evaluating its use for predicting mastectomy skin flap perfusion for reconstruction, lymphatic mapping for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy, and axillary reverse mapping (ARM) for prevention of lymphoedema. In the authors' experience, routine use of ICG angiography during breast reconstruction postmastectomy was demonstrated to be cost-effective for the reduction of ischemic complications in the Australian setting. A novel tracer combination, ICG-technetium-99m offered a safe and effective substitute to the "gold standard" dual tracer for SLN biopsy, although greater costs were associated with ICG. An ongoing trial will evaluate ARM node identification using ICG fluorescence during axillary lymph node dissection and potential predictive factors of ARM node involvement. These data add to the growing literature on ICG and allow future research to build on this to improve understanding of the potential benefits of fluorescence-guided surgery in breast cancer and reconstruction surgery.

Body Mass Index Is Associated With Myocutaneous Free Flap Reliability: Overcoming the Obesity Obstacle With a Proposed Clinical Algorithm to Identify and Manage High-Risk Patients Undergoing Gracilis Free Flap With Skin Paddle Harvest

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of body mass index (BMI) in predicting postoperative complications following myocutaneous free flap transfer. In addition, we sought to identify certain body composition variables that may be used to stratify patients into low- versus high-risk for gracilis myocutaneous free flap with skin paddle failure.

METHODS

Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we collected data for all patients who underwent myocutaneous free flap transfer from 2015 to 2021. Demographic data, medical history, surgical characteristics, and postoperative outcomes, including complications, reoperations, and readmissions, were collected. Body mass index was correlated with outcome measures to determine its role in predicting myocutaneous free flap reliability. Subsequently, we retrospectively obtained measurements of perigracilis anatomy in patients who underwent computed tomography angiography bilateral lower extremity scans with intravenous contrast at our institution. We compared body composition data with mathematical equations calculating the potential area along the skin of the thigh within which the gracilis perforator may be found.

RESULTS

Across the United States, 1549 patients underwent myocutaneous free flap transfer over the 7-year study period. Being in obesity class III (BMI ≥40 kg/m2) was associated with a 4-times greater risk of flap complications necessitating a return to the operating room compared with being within the normal BMI range. In our computed tomography angiography analysis, average perigracilis adipose thickness was 18.3 ± 8.0 mm. Adipose thickness had a strong, positive exponential relationship with the area of skin within which the perforator may be found.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, higher BMI was associated with decreased myocutaneous free flap reliability. Specifically, inner thigh adipose thickness can be used to estimate the area along the skin within which the gracilis perforator may be found. This variable, along with BMI, can be used to identify patients who are considered high-risk for flap failure and who may benefit from additional postoperative monitoring, such as the use of a color flow Doppler probe and more frequent and prolonged skin paddle monitoring.

Mastectomy Skin Flap Stability Prediction Using Indocyanine Green Angiography: A Randomized Prospective Trial

BACKGROUND

The first step in successful breast reconstruction is obtaining a stable skin flap. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography has recently been studied for its value and usefulness in predicting the stability of skin flaps; however, relevant prospective studies of its clinical efficacy are limited.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to prospectively investigate the clinical impact on breast reconstruction outcomes of the intraoperative use of ICG angiography.

METHODS

Between March and December 2021, 64 patients who underwent immediate breast reconstruction at the authors' institution were prospectively enrolled. They were classified into an experimental group (n = 39; undergoing ICG angiography) and a control group (n = 25; undergoing gross inspection alone). In the absence of viable skin, debridement was performed at the surgeon's discretion. Skin complications were categorized as skin necrosis (the transition of the skin flap to full-thickness necrosis) or skin erosion (a skin flap that did not deteriorate or become necrotic but lacked intactness).

RESULTS

The 2 groups were matched in terms of basic demographic characteristics and incision line necrosis ratio (P = .354). However, intraoperative debridement was significantly more frequent in the experimental group (51.3% vs 48.0%, P = .006). The authors additionally classified skin flap necrosis into partial- and full-thickness necrosis, with a higher predominance of partial-thickness necrosis in the experimental vs control group (82.8% vs 55.6%; P = .043).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative ICG angiography does not directly minimize skin erosion or necrosis. However, compared to gross examination alone, it enables surgeons to perform a more active debridement during surgery, thereby contributing to a lower incidence of advanced skin necrosis. In breast reconstruction, ICG angiography may be useful for assessing the viability of the postmastectomy skin flap and could contribute to successful reconstruction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Building Complex Autologous Breast Reconstruction Program: A Preliminary Experience

Autologous breast reconstruction is an increasingly popular method of reconstruction for breast cancer survivors. While deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps are the gold standard, not all patients are ideal candidates for DIEP flaps due to low BMI, body habitus, or previous abdominal surgery. In these patients, complex autologous breast reconstruction can be performed, but there is a limited number of programs around the world due to high technical demand. Given the increased demand and need for complex autologous flaps, it is critical to build programs to increase patient access and teach future microsurgeons. In this paper, we discuss the steps, pearls, and preliminary experience of building a complex autologous breast reconstruction program in a tertiary academic center. We performed a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent starting the year prior to the creation of our program. Since the start of our program, a total of 74 breast mounds have been reconstructed in 46 patients using 87 flaps. Over 23 months, there was a decrease in median surgical time for bilateral reconstruction by 124 min (p = 0.03), an increase in the number of co-surgeon cases by 66% (p < 0.01), and an increase in the number of complex autologous breast reconstruction by 42% (p < 0.01). Our study shows that a complex autologous breast reconstruction program can be successfully established using a multi-phase approach, including the development of a robust co-surgeon model. In addition, we found that a dedicated program leads to increased patient access, decreased operative time, and enhancement of trainee education.

Evaluation of nipple vascularity using superb microvascular imaging in patients with reduction mammoplasty

We aimed to investigate the effect of the chosen pedicle on nipple vascularity by evaluating changes in the microvascular circulation of the nipples in patients undergoing reduction mammoplasty through superb microvascular imaging study (SMI). 70 nipples were included in this retrospective study. There were 15 patients (30 nipples) in Group A using the inferior pedicle and 20 patients (40 nipples) in Group B using the superomedial pedicle. The vascular index (VI) of each nipple were evaluated preoperatively and at the third postoperative month using SMI. The mean VI in Group A was 1.25 (0.5-3.6) preoperatively and 1.3 (0.4-3.2) at the third postoperative month (P > .05). The mean VI in Group B was 1.65 (0.7/2.9) preoperatively and 1.15 (0.2/1.9) at the third postoperative month (P < .05). While the VI increased by 11.3% in Group A, it decreased by 30.6% in Group B (P < .001). The changing of the VI was analyzed between comparable groups, and decreasing microvascular circulation of the nipple with use of the superomedial pedicle was detected by quantitative values, which can be useful in at-risk patient groups, the planning of surgical procedures, and early revisions at postoperative month 3.

Superb Microvascular Imaging at Evaluation of Nonvisible Buried De-epitelized Flap Vascularization in Breast Reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

Superb microvascular imaging is a Doppler technique that increases the visibility of small vessels and gives quantitative information about tissue blood supply by measuring the vascular index. In this study, it is aimed to evaluate the long-term and postradiotherapy changes in blood flow of buried de-epitelized flaps in breast reconstruction by using the quantitative values obtained through superb microvascular imaging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of the 14 patients who underwent nipple-sparing breastconserving surgery and immediately breast reconstruction with a de-epitelized extended latissimus dorsi flap was done. In order to demonstrate the effect of radiotherapy on flaps microvascular circulation, patients were evaluated using superb microvascular imaging postoperative first week, first month, and postradiotherapy first week and sixth month. The normal distribution of the data was evaluated with the Shapiro-Wilk test. Paired samples t-test was used for comparisons.

RESULTS

According to the paired samples t-tests, postoperative first week mean vascular index was higher than postoperative first month and postradiotherapy first week (P < .05). Besides, postradiotherapy first week mean vascular index was higher than postoperative first month and also than postradiotherapy sixth month (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Radiotherapy can affect the results of breast reconstruction by endothelial and fibrotic injury. In this study, the changes in the microvascular circulation of the latissimus dorsi flap were discussed and found to increase at postoperative and postradiotherapy early period related to inflammation and not decreased significantly at long-term follow-up after radiotherapy.

Prepectoral Versus Subpectoral Implant-Based Reconstruction: How Do We Choose?

Aspects of a patient's lifestyle, their state of health, breast size, and mastectomy skin flap quality are factors that influence the suggested plane of dissection in implant-based breast reconstruction. This article aims to review developments in prosthetic breast reconstruction and provide recommendations to help providers choose whether prepectoral or subpectoral reconstruction in the best approach for each of their patients.

Evaluation of Intraoperative Anastomotic Patency with Angiography in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction

Background

Microsurgical breast reconstruction is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Several measures are taken to ensure safe elevation of the flap, preparation of recipient vessels, microvascular anastomosis, and flap inset. Reestablishing proper blood flow to the flap tissue after microvascular anastomosis is one of many critical steps for surgical success. Several measures to assess blood flow to the flap have been used; however, the use of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) of the anastomosis in breast reconstruction has not been well documented. We present a series using ICGA for the evaluation of microvascular anastomosis success in breast reconstruction.

Methods

Cases from patients who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction between March 2022 and January 2023 and who had intraoperative ICGA were retrospectively reviewed. We compared the intraoperative findings on ICGA to flap success.

Results

Sixteen patients underwent bilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator flap reconstruction with intraoperative ICGA of the microvascular anastomosis, constituting 32 deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps. The ICGA demonstrated return of blood flow in all the flaps after microvascular anastomosis and no flap loss in our sample population. Nine flaps required additional drainage using the superficial inferior epigastric vein, and the superficial circumflex vein was used for additional drainage in one of the flaps.

Conclusions

The use of intraoperative ICGA provides reliable visual feedback regarding the patency and direction of the blood flow through the microvascular anastomosed vessels. ICGA can be used as an additional tool in the plastic surgeon's armamentarium for successful breast reconstruction.

Ninety-day all-cause emergency room use among coronary artery bypass grafting patients associated with near-infrared fluorescence imaging: a retrospective cohort study

Reducing emergency room (ER) use may indicate the improved quality of patient care at index hospitalization. The aim of this study is to determine whether the use of near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is associated with a lowered 90-day all-cause ER use.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included adult patients with inpatient hospitalizations between January 2016 and June 2020 for an isolated CABG procedure at a US hospital. Propensity score matching was used to create matched cohorts to address the differences in patient, payer type, hospital, and clinical characteristics. A multivariable regression analysis was conducted to determine the association of NIRF imaging with ICG on ER use within 90 days of discharge after controlling for patient, payer type, hospital, and clinical covariates.

Results

In total, 230 506 adult patients underwent an isolated CABG procedure. Less than 1% (n=1965) were assessed with NIRF imaging using ICG. There were differences in patient demographic and hospital characteristics between the treatment group (i.e. NIRF with ICG) and the comparison group (i.e. no NIRF with ICG). After controlling for covariates, a statistically significant lower 90-day all-cause ER use was documented among the treatment group (adjusted odds ratio=0.84, 95% confidence interval=0.73-0.96, P<0.009). Reasons associated with ER use were similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

Routine intraoperative graft patency assessment with NIRF imaging using ICG may help to improve a patient's care experience and reduce subsequent resource utilization. Intraoperative graft patency assessment with NIRF imaging using ICG is associated with a 90-day all-cause ER use reduction among CABG patients. Further studies are needed to compare the ER usage among centers that used this technique versus those that did not to determine if associated reductions in ER use are a center or technique-specific phenomenon.

Advances in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can be divided into prepectoral breast reconstruction (PPBR) and subpectoral breast reconstruction (SPBR) according to the implant plane. The original prepectoral breast reconstruction was abandoned for a long time due to the frequent and severe complications. Now, advances in materials technology and improved methods of mastectomy have made safe prepectoral breast reconstruction possible. Moreover, a number of studies have gradually demonstrated the advantages of prepectoral breast reconstruction. As prepectoral breast reconstruction becomes more and more attractive, it is time to review the current advances in prepectoral breast reconstruction.

Trends in outcomes with adoption of indocyanine green angiography in postmastectomy reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) aims to reduce ischaemic complications by supplementing intraoperative perfusion assessment of mastectomy flaps. Learning curves for this technology have not been analysed. We evaluated changes in patient outcomes with increasing case volume after ICGA adoption in postmastectomy reconstruction.

METHODS

Single-institution retrospective analysis of 320 implant-based reconstructions following mastectomy using ICGA from 2015, when it was introduced, to 2021. Cases chronologically divided into tertiles and complications amongst groups evaluated. Trends in ischaemic complications plotted using weighted moving average. CUSUM analysis determined after how many cases plateau was reached. Number of ischaemic complications prior to plateau calculated with AUC analysis.

RESULTS

Ischaemic complications decreased over time (Group 1, 15.1%; Group 2, 11.2%; Group 3, 4.7%, P = 0.034). Cases of delayed reconstruction increased over time (Group 1, 6.6%; Group 2, 28%; Group 3, 22.4%; P < 0.001). Our institution reached plateau of 10% ischaemic complications after 160 cases. Mean incidence of ischaemic complications decreased from 16.9% during the first 160 cases to 3.8% after plateau was reached (P < 0.001). Eleven extra breasts (6.9%) experienced ischaemic complications, that may have been avoided if operated by surgeons after the first 160 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

There was increased tendency towards a conservative approach of delaying reconstruction and decreased rates of ischaemic complications with increasing case volume after ICGA implementation. A significant number of cases were needed to reach plateau of minimal ischaemic complications. This data could encourage development of standardized protocols for this technology to shorten learning curves for improved patient outcomes.

Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy, from the Subpectoral to the Prepectoral Approach: An Evidence-Based Change of Mind?

Over the last years, prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction has undergone a renaissance due to several technical advancements regarding mastectomy techniques and surgical approaches for the placement and soft tissue coverage of silicone implants. Initially abandoned due to the high incidence of complications, such as capsular contraction, implant extrusion, and poor aesthetic outcome, the effective prevention of these types of complications led to the prepectoral technique coming back in style for the ease of implant placement and the conservation of the pectoralis muscle function. Additional advantages such as a decrease of postoperative pain, animation deformity, and operative time contribute to the steady gain in popularity. This review aims to summarize the factors influencing the trend towards prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction and to discuss the challenges and prospects related to this operative approach.

Normalization of Time-Intensity Curves for Quantification of Foot Perfusion Using Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging With Indocyanine Green

PURPOSE

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging using indocyanine green (ICG) is gaining popularity for the quantification of tissue perfusion, including foot perfusion in patients with lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD). However, the absolute fluorescence intensity is influenced by patient-and system-related factors limiting reliable and valid quantification. To enhance the quality of quantitative perfusion assessment using ICG NIR fluorescence imaging, normalization of the measured time-intensity curves seems useful.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this cohort study, the effect of normalization on 2 aspects of ICG NIR fluorescence imaging in assessment of foot perfusion was measured: the repeatability and the region selection. Following intravenous administration of ICG, the NIR fluorescence intensity in both feet was recorded for 10 mins using the Quest Spectrum platform^®. The effect of normalization on repeatability was measured in the nontreated foot in patients undergoing unilateral revascularization preprocedural and postprocedural (repeatability group). The effect of normalization on region selection was performed in patients without LEAD (region selection group). Absolute and normalized time-intensity curves were compared.

RESULTS

Successful ICG NIR fluorescence imaging was performed in 54 patients (repeatability group, n = 38; region selection group, n = 16). For the repeatability group, normalization of the time-intensity curves displayed a comparable inflow pattern for repeated measurements. For the region selection group, the maximum fluorescence intensity (Imax) demonstrated significant differences between the 3 measured regions of the foot (P = .002). Following normalization, the time-intensity curves in both feet were comparable for all 3 regions.

CONCLUSION

This study shows the effect of normalization of time-intensity curves on both the repeatability and region selection in ICG NIR fluorescence imaging. The significant difference between absolute parameters in various regions of the foot demonstrates the limitation of absolute intensity in interpreting tissue perfusion. Therefore, normalization and standardization of camera settings are essential steps toward reliable and valid quantification of tissue perfusion using ICG NIR fluorescence imaging.

Utility of indocyanine green angiography in delaying breast reconstruction postmastectomy

Background

Perfusion mapping with indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) in breast reconstruction can change intraoperative plans and reduce the risk of flap necrosis. We evaluated the utility of ICGA in the decision to delay reconstruction postmastectomy and its predictive power for necrosis.

Methods

Single-institution retrospective study of implant-based breast reconstructions following mastectomy using ICGA from 2015 to 2021. A decision was made to proceed with immediate reconstruction or delay reconstruction based on clinical assessment and perfusion analysis. Incidence of complications in the immediate and delayed cohorts were assessed. Intraoperative ICGA perfusion values were correlated with postoperative outcomes to calculate diagnostic accuracy.

Results

Three hundred twenty breast reconstructions were performed. Two hundred fifty-nine of these underwent immediate reconstruction, while 61 underwent delayed reconstruction due to poor perfusion. Median time between mastectomy and delayed reconstruction was 7.3 days (range, 4–21 days). All 8 cases (3.1%) of necrosis were in the immediate cohort. Cases of necrosis had significantly lower intraoperative ICGA perfusion values compared to cases without necrosis (absolute values 13.1 versus 27.1 units, p = 0.017). Increasing our ICGA cut-off score for necrosis from 14 to 22 units would have increased sensitivity from 63 to 100% but reduced specificity from 70 to 48%.

Conclusions

Delayed breast reconstruction due to poor perfusion on ICGA resulted in no cases of necrosis. A higher ICGA cut-off score for predicting necrosis is more sensitive but less specific. ICGA is useful as a supplement rather than a substitute for clinical assessment in flap perfusion evaluation.

Level of Evidence Level III, Risk / Diagnostic Study.

Clinical Issues-January 2022

Cleaning the central core floor Key words: semirestricted area, cleaning practices, vacuum, flooring, mopping. Wearing a cooling vest under a sterile gown Key words: thermal comfort, thermal stress, cooling vest, scrubbed personnel, surgical attire. Fluorescence-guided surgery Key words: fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS), fluorescent agent, fluorophore, imaging, indocyanine green (ICG). Containment of used suture needles Key words: sharps injury, sharps containment device, suture packet, suture needle, needle return.

Use of Indocyanine Green Angiography decreases the risk of complications in autologous- and implant-based breast reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Indocyanine Green Angiography (ICG-A) is an imaging technique used to visualize tissue perfusion in real time. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate all published papers on breast reconstruction using ICG-A, which provides information on complication rates and to investigate whether the use of this peroperative method decreases the risk of complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and UpToDate were searched using relevant terms. The literature was assessed using the PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were: original articles written in English assessing ICG-angiography in breast reconstruction. The individual studies were evaluated according to Cochrane guidelines.

RESULTS

The search yielded 243 papers on ICG-A and breast reconstruction. Twenty-six of these were included for analysis. The risk of overall major complications ([OR] = 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.43-0.66, p = 0.00001) and overall loss of reconstruction ([OR] = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.37-0.92, and p = 0.020) was significantly lower when peroperative ICG-A was used. When using ICG-A to evaluate mastectomy flaps, a statistically lower risk of major complications ([OR] = 0.56 and p = 0.0001) and the loss of reconstruction was found ([OR] = 0.46, p = 0.006). ICG-A used in autologous breast reconstruction significantly reduced the risk of minor ([OR] = 0.62 and p = 0.001) and major complications ([OR] = 0.53 and p = 0.0028).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first systematic review to analyze the use of ICG-A on both mastectomy flaps and autologous reconstruction. The results obtained in the current study indicate that the use of ICG-A in breast reconstructive procedures reduces the complications as well as the loss of reconstruction.