Predictors and Consequences of Intraoperative Anastomotic Failure in DIEP Flaps.

Intraoperative anastomotic failures during DIEP flap reconstruction are associated with longer, more expensive cases and increased rates of post-operative complications. Presence of increased numbers of circulators and junior residents was associated with increased risk of anastomotic failure. Future research is necessary to develop practice guidelines for optimizing patient and surgical factors for intraoperative anastomotic success.