The vertical gracilis myocutaneous flap for breast reconstruction in a massive weight loss patient

Abstract

The number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery is increasing worldwide. Different types of free flaps are often used for breast reconstruction following mastectomy. We present a not previously described case using a vertical myocutaneous gracilis flap for breast reconstruction in a massive weight loss patient. The patient was a 61 year-old woman who previously had a lumpectomy for an in situ ductile carcinoma of her left breast. Subsequently the patient underwent a full mastectomy in 2020 due to a recurrence. The massive weight loss population poses a challenge in reconstructive surgery, due to their higher risk of complications. However, we still believe free flaps should be considered as a valid option for breast reconstruction in these patients. Due to the often increased size of perforator vessels in these patients, other flaps may prove more suitable than the usually preferred ones.