Tailoring the NAC pedicle for reduction mammoplasty - Individualising patient care and safety

Introduction: Therapeutic mammoplasty, (TM) aims to preserve the nipple areolar complex (NAC) on a planned vascularized pedicle facilitating more extensive cancer resection. For tumours located inferiorly, a superior or supero-medial or even lateral NAC pedicle is preferable. Whilst NAC vascularization patterns are documented from cadavers, MRI or CT angiography, we mapped NAC vascularization in patients undergoing TM to allow individual tailoring of the NAC pedicle optimizing mobilization and safety.