"De-epithelization" and dermal pedicles.

Biopsy specimens from 38 "de-epithelized" dermal pedicles were examined microscopically. There was considerable variation in the depth of the plane among surgeons, procedures, and even between specimens from two sides of a bilateral procedure done by the same surgeon. Usually, the "de-epithelization" removed all the epidermis plus the upper layer of dermis containing the pilosebaceous apparatus. The significance of this finding as related to the future development of epidermal inclusion cysts is uncertain. Also, it brings into question the importance of "the dermal plexus circulation," which many have thought to be critical for viability of the nipple.