The lateral thoracodorsal flap in breast reconstruction: a long-term follow up study.

Fifty-four patients were studied a mean of five years after their breasts had been reconstructed between 1984 and 1990 using the lateral thoracodorsal (LTD) flap in combination with either a thin shell, non-low-bleed (n = 35) or a thick shell, low bleed (n = 19) silicone gel implant. The rate of capsular contracture (Baker III-IV) was 11% in the first group and 10% in the second according to a modified Baker classification. Open capsulotomy was common in both groups of patients (15/35 in the first group and 13/19 in the second). Investigation by applanation tonometry of the capsular contracture agreed with the modified Baker classification. The cosmetic results were evaluated clinically and from photographs. Best scores were recorded for scars and ptosis in both evaluations. There were no significant differences between the general cosmetic results in the two groups. The patients graded their estimations of the final outcome of their breast reconstruction on a 10-point visual analogue scale (VAS); the mean for the first group was 8.7 and for the second 9.2. None of the patients regretted her operation and they would all recommend the procedure to another patient.