PATIENT STORIES & NEWS
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New Technique in Breast Reconstruction
While most breast reconstruction uses tissue from the patient’s abdomen, the new Profunda Artery Perforator (PAP) flap for breast reconstruction surgery uses tissue from the inner thigh to create new breasts. Kettering Health is the first healthcare system to perform this specialized surgery.
The technique offers patients a natural look without the need for breast implants, prevents muscle loss in other parts of the body, and leaves a well-hidden surgical scar.
“We are excited to be the only Dayton healthcare system to offer this life-changing surgery,” said Dr. Nickolay Markov, plastic surgeon at Kettering Health. “By offering this surgery, we’ve expanded options for breast reconstruction to women throughout the region.”
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Microsurgical Free-Flap Surgery
In 2020, the plastic and reconstructive surgery team at Wright-Patt Medical Center hit a significant milestone: the 50th microsurgical, free-flap surgery. This highly specialized surgical procedure utilizes a microscope to move tissue from one part of the body to another area in order to repair the effects of trauma, cancer, or other complex abnormalities.
In recent years, the advanced reconstruction program, overseen by Maj. (Dr.) Nickolay Markov, WPMC’s chief of Microsurgery, and Lt. Col. (Dr.) Justin Fox, Surgery Flight commander, has grown in both scope and volume.
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First Laparoscopic-Assisted Breast Reconstruction
In 2022, Dr. Nickolay Markov with the assistance of Dr. Riyadh Tayim successfully performed a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap procedure at Kettering Health Main Campus. As the first laparoscopic-assisted breast reconstruction in the Dayton area, the procedure used the patient’s own tissue from the lower abdomen to reconstruct breast tissue post-mastectomy.
The laparoscopic approach removes excess skin, fat, and blood vessels from the abdomen with minimal incisions. This type of approach allows for a natural reconstruction, as well as a significant decrease in post-operative complications, decreased recovery time, and fewer long-term complications.