Sensory recovery and the role of innervated flaps in autologous breast reconstruction-a narrative review.

ABSTRACT:

Background and objective

Continuing (micro)surgical developments result in satisfactory aesthetic outcomes after autologous breast reconstruction. However, sensation recovers poorly and remains a source of dissatisfaction and potential harm. Sensory nerve coaptation is a promising technique to improve sensation in the reconstructed breast.

Methods

In this literature review an overview of current knowledge about sensory recovery in autologous breast reconstruction and the role of innervated flaps is presented. A thorough PubMed search was conducted, using the terms "autologous breast reconstruction", "innervated" and "sensation".

Key content and findings

The breast skin is predominantly innervated by the second until sixth intercostal nerve. Some nerves can occasionall

SUBMITTER: Bubberman JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10493633 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature