Predictive risk factors of complications in different breast reconstruction methods

Purpose Women with different BMI, age and comorbidities seek for breast reconstruction. It is critical to understand the risk associated with each technique to ensure the most appropriate method and timing is used. Outcome after reconstructions have been studied, but consensus is lacking regarding predictive risk factors of complications. The authors present their experience of different autologous and alloplastic reconstructions with an emphasis on predictors of complications. Methods Prospectively maintained reconstruction database from 2008 to 2019 was reviewed. Factors associated with complications were identified using logistic regression, multinomial logistic regression and risk factor score to determine predictors of complications. Results A total of 850 breast reconstructions were performed in 793 women, including 447 DIEP, 283 LD, 12 TMG and 51 implant reconstructions. Complications included minor ( n = 231, 29%), re-surgery requiring ( n = 142, 18%) and medical complications ( n = 7, 1%). Multivariable analysis showed that complications were associated independently with BMI > 30 (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.05–2.39, p = 0.027), LD technique (OR 4.05; 95% CI 2.10–7.81, p