Venous Coupler Size in Autologous Breast Reconstruction – Does it Matter?

Background: Autologous microvascular breast reconstruction has become an increasingly common reconstructive procedure. The venous anastomoses are commonly completed with a coupler device. While its efficacy has been shown using 3.0 mm size and greater, little is known about the consequences of using coupler sizes less than 2.5 mm. Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction was conducted at New York University Medical Center (2007 – 2011). Flaps were divided based on coupler size used: 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, and 3.5 mm. Outcomes were measured by inci…