Enhancing Volume Precision in Breast Reconstruction: A BMI-Based Model for Predicting Flap Weight in Profunda Artery Perforator Flaps
Varnava C., Gorji S., Wellenbrock S., Hirsch T., Kückelhaus M., Wiebringhaus P.
Retrospective Study with a reported sample of 96, published in Life (Basel) (2025) — summary generated from the PubMed abstract.
Early human evidence such as case series or small samples is exploring possible benefits.
- Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
- Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
- Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
- Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
- Emerging · Emerging topic under active research
This page is generated from the PubMed record. The Thai description is an automated summary of bibliographic fields and the abstract, not a full translation, and is not medical advice.
- Study type
- Retrospective Study
- Journal
- Life (Basel) (2025)
- Reported sample size
- 96
- Source database
- Europe PMC
- PMID
- 40283220
- PMCID
- PMC12028666
- DOI
- 10.3390/life15040667
- Citations
- 1
Abstract (original English)
Background: In recent years, the profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap has gained recognition as a viable technique in autologous breast reconstruction, demonstrating low donor site morbidity and favorable reconstructive outcomes. This study aims to highlight the recent refinements using the PAP flap for breast reconstruction focusing on preoperative volume prediction. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the outcomes of breast reconstruction surgeries using the PAP flap at our institution between May 2018 and December 2022. A total of 114 PAP flaps performed in 96 patients were included. Statistical analysis was performed to analyze flap volume in relation to body mass index (BMI). Surgical details, such as donor site-related complications and patient characteristics, were also collected. Results: BMI was identified as a statistically significant predictor ( p Conclusions: Our study indicates that it is feasible to harvest an adequate volume for breast reconstruction even in patients with a low BMI. To facilitate preoperative prediction of PAP flap volume, we developed an algorithm designed to enhance preoperative planning and estimate the need for supplementary procedures to achieve the desired volume.
What this study does not prove
- • This study does not prove SVF is an approved treatment or a replacement for standard care.
- • Without an adequate control group, treatment effects cannot be separated from other factors.
Evidence level
Early human evidence such as case series or small samples is exploring possible benefits.
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