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Today I found myself thinking about one of the most meaningful parts of my work in the operating room—assisting in DIEP procedures. These surgeries are life‑changing, especially for women who are rebuilding after a mastectomy.
When I first started with DIEP procedures, I was both nervous and fascinated. My hands shook as I laid out the instruments, and I wondered if I could keep up. Over time, I learned that our role as nurses is not just technical—it’s about making sure every detail flows smoothly, from the first team briefing to the final count.
The Morning of a DIEP Procedure
The OR feels different on these mornings. There’s a quiet focus, mixed with a sense of importance. We know this surgery means so much to the patient.
Before anything begins, we gather for a team briefing. We go over the plan, talk about patient needs, and make sure everyone knows their role. These briefings always calm me—they remind me we’re in this together.
Setting Up
Preparation is everything. I organize sutures, retractors, and the delicate micro instruments. I check the venous coupler device. I still remember my first DIEP setup—my hands trembled, but I kept going. Now, I know that careful preparation is what keeps the surgery running smoothly.
Two Scrub Nurses, One Goal
Most DIEP procedures have two scrub nurses:
- One focuses on the abdominal area, raising the flap and finding tiny vessels.
- The other works on the chest, helping with the anastomosis—joining blood vessels.
Both roles demand complete focus. Hours pass, but we stay steady, because every step matters.
Collecting the Patient
One part of the day that stays with me is collecting the patient. Many arrive anxious. I remember holding the hand of a woman who was trembling before her DIEP surgery. I told her she’d be cared for every moment. Her eyes softened, and I felt the human side of nursing—beyond instruments and sterile fields.
When the Patient Falls Asleep
Once anesthesia begins, the room shifts. The WHO checklist is repeated, gowns and gloves go on, and the sterile field is prepared. Skin prepping and draping take time, but they’re vital. Infection prevention is our silent promise.
My Responsibilities During DIEP
Over the years, I’ve learned that nursing in DIEP procedures is about skill, anticipation, and teamwork:
- Holding the flap steady without damage
- Loading liga clips quickly and correctly
- Managing micro instruments with care
- Counting and recounting every sponge, needle, and tool
I’ll never forget the first time I held the flap. My arms ached, but I didn’t let go. I knew the risk was too great.
Lessons Learned
DIEP procedures taught me patience and focus. They taught me to stay calm under pressure, to communicate even without words, and to keep learning with every case.
There were days I doubted myself, but each procedure built my confidence.
The Emotional Side
These surgeries are not just technical—they’re deeply emotional. For many women, DIEP reconstruction is reclaiming part of themselves after cancer. Watching them wake up, knowing I played a part in their healing, is humbling. Some days I leave exhausted, other days moved to tears. Always, I leave grateful.
Why It Matters to Me
Being part of DIEP procedures means:
- Protecting patients when they’re most vulnerable
- Supporting surgeons through delicate work
- Helping transform lives quietly, behind the scenes
At the end of each surgery, when the patient goes to recovery, the team shares tired smiles. We know we’ve done something meaningful.
As nurses, our role may not always be visible—but it’s critical. And for me, that’s what makes being in the OR so special.
Helpful Link for reference about DIEP Procedures
External Link: Learn more about the DIEP Procedure on Queen Victora NHS Foundation Trust provides a clear explanation of the DIEP procedure, including the use of abdominal tissue for breast reconstruction after mastectomy. You can access it here
Internal Link: If you want to read more about surgical instruments used in these procedures, check out my post on The Ultimate Guide to Surgical Instruments for Nurses.
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