DIEP stands for Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator. This acronym refers to a specific type of flap used in reconstructive surgery, most commonly in breast reconstruction following mastectomy.
Here's a breakdown:
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Deep Inferior Epigastric: This refers to the deep inferior epigastric artery and vein, which are major blood vessels located in the lower abdomen.
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Perforator: This refers to small blood vessels that "perforate" or pass through the abdominal muscles to supply blood to the skin and fat.
Essentially, a DIEP flap involves using skin and fat from the lower abdomen, along with the deep inferior epigastric blood vessels that feed it, to reconstruct a breast after mastectomy. The DIEP flap procedure is considered a muscle-sparing technique because it aims to preserve the abdominal muscles, unlike some older flap procedures like the TRAM flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous flap), which involved removing a portion of the abdominal muscle. By preserving the muscle, the DIEP flap often leads to a quicker recovery and less abdominal weakness.
This technique typically results in:
- Reduced risk of abdominal weakness and hernias compared to other flap procedures.
- A more natural-looking breast reconstruction as it uses the patient's own tissue.
- Improved long-term cosmetic outcomes.
