On December 8, an all female surgical team, led by Dr. Kathryn Sawa, performed the first Innervated Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) Free Flap breast reconstruction in the Region of Waterloo! This is a relatively new technique, where very small nerves in the chest and abdominal flap tissue are carefully dissected out and reconnected with microsurgery. Traditionally, DIEP flap breast reconstruction restores breast shape however the tissue is numb because the nerves in the breast are cut at the time of the mastectomy. This technique gives patients the chance at restoring sensation/feeling in their reconstructed breast which can make a monumental difference in the lives of patients who have already been fighting cancer.
In Dr. Sawa’s message to Surgery Program leaders, she described the excellence of the entire OR team and thanked them for making this complex surgery go smoothly: “It truly is a testament to the dedication and skill of our OR staff at CMH.”
Innovative surgeries like this are made possible by donors, like you. Community dollars fund 100% of the equipment and technology in our hospital and your support is critical to ensuring that the best care possible is delivered close to home, when you need it most. By making a donation to our Trees of Caring Campaign you are supporting patients like Melanie, who received care at CMH after a recent breast cancer diagnosis. Melanie is now celebrating her holidays cancer free after surgery and follow-up treatment under the care of Dr. Sawa and Dr. McLeod.
To read more about Melanie’s story or to make your donation and help fund equipment at CMH click here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/treesofcaring.
Shared from @cambridge_memorial_hospital