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Correspondence to Author: Bryan Lim, 

Introduction: Although deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction is becoming more and more common, there is debate about how best to employ closed suction drains (CSD) at the abdominal donor site. Current research on the use of CSD, placement/removal criteria, and complications in DIEP flap operations is summarized in this narrative review. There is also discussion of alternative methods and their consequences for postoperative care. Techniques: In August 2024, a comprehensive search was carried out across many databases to find English-language research on the application of CSD in DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Original research on topics including CSD volume criteria, time, problems, substitutes like progressive tension sutures, and effects on patient outcomes and bathing was required for inclusion. Relevant paper references were manually searched.Although CSD may lessen the formation of seromas or hematomas, early removal (≤3 days) did not result with more problems or a shorter hospital stay. With evidence of similar or fewer problems and better recovery than CSD, progressive tension sutures appear to be a promising substitute. It’s uncertain if taking a shower early with drains is safe. Conclusions: More thorough randomized studies are required to provide evidence-based procedures for the timing of removal and show the effectiveness of new drain-free treatments on patient-centered outcomes, even while CSD attempts to reduce postoperative problems. Practice variability may be decreased by using standardized criteria. The long-term effects of drainage techniques on both functional and aesthetic outcomes should be investigated in more detail.

Keywords:DIEP; breast reconstruction; drain tubes; closed suction drain; timing.

Citation:

Bryan Lim. A Comprehensive Review Of The Best Use Of Drain Tubes For Diep Flap Breast Reconstruction. Advances in Plastic Surgery 2025.