Search Results (23)

In recent years, significant progress has been made in breast reconstructive surgery, particularly with the use of three-dimensional (3D) disassemblable scaffolds. Reconstructive plastic surgery aimed at restoring the shape and size of the mammary gland offers medical, psychological, and social benefits. Using autologous tissues allows surgeons to recreate the appearance of the mammary gland and achieve tactile sensations similar to those of a healthy organ while minimizing the risks associated with implants; 3D disassemblable scaffolds are a promising solution that overcomes the limitations of traditional methods. These constructs offer the potential for patient-specific anatomical adaptation and can provide both temporary and long-term structural support for regenerating tissues. One of the most promising approaches in post-mastectomy breast reconstruction involves the use of autologous cellular and tissue components integrated into either synthetic scaffolds—such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and polycaprolactone (PCL)—or naturally derived biopolymer-based matrices, including alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid derivatives, collagen, fibrin, gelatin, and silk fibroin. In this context, two complementary research directions are gaining increasing significance: (1) the development of novel hybrid biomaterials that combine the favorable characteristics of both synthetic and natural polymers while maintaining biocompatibility and biodegradability; and (2) the advancement of three-dimensional bioprinting technologies for the fabrication of patient-specific scaffolds capable of incorporating cellular therapies. Such therapies typically involve mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and bioactive signaling molecules, such as growth factors, aimed at promoting angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and lineage-specific differentiation. In our review, we analyze existing developments in this area and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of 3D disassemblable scaffolds for mammary gland reconstruction, as well as prospects for their further research and clinical use. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Breast reconstruction following mastectomy is a critical aspect of treatment for many patients, offering both physical and psychological benefits. Traditional methods include autologous tissue flaps and implants, with implant-based techniques being the most prevalent in the Western world. However, complications such as capsular contracture remain a concern. Acellular dermal matrices (ADM) have emerged as a valuable alternative, improving outcomes by reducing capsular contracture rates and enhancing tissue integration. Case Presentation: This case report presents the first use of a novel ADM, biocade^® (biotrics bioimplants AG, Berlin, Germany) in breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. A 55-year-old female patient underwent a left-sided nipple-sparing mastectomy, followed by prepectoral direct-to-implant reconstruction using an ADM-wrapped implant. The patient tolerated the procedure well, with no immediate complications observed. Postoperative monitoring focused on wound healing and assessing for signs of complications related to the implant. The use of the ADM resulted into satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes. Conclusions: The successful outcome of this case highlights the potential benefits of using collagen matrices in breast reconstruction, particularly in preserving mastectomy scenarios. The immediate results and improved aesthetics offered by prepectoral direct-to-implant reconstruction with ADM align well with patient expectations for a more natural appearance and faster recovery. However, this case report also highlights the need for ongoing research to fully explore the potential of these biomaterials and address associated challenges. Full article

Background: Immediate direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction is associated with high patient satisfaction and faster recovery. However, concerns remain for patients requiring post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). While PMRT improves overall survival for breast cancer patients, it has been associated with increased implant-specific complications such as capsular contracture, infection, and implant loss. As the impact of PMRT on pre-pectoral DTI specifically is not well understood, the goal of this systematic review was to evaluate the impact of PMRT on outcomes in this growing patient population. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were systematically reviewed for articles published from 1 January 2000 to 23 December 2024 investigating outcomes after prepectoral DTI reconstruction with exposure to PMRT. Demographic, clinical, and post-operative variables were recorded for PMRT and non-PMRT cohorts, and primary outcomes included infection, capsular contracture, implant loss, and wound healing complications. Meta-analysis was performed for key outcomes using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Results: Of 472 initially identified records, seven studies met inclusion criteria with a combined total of 343 prepectoral DTI reconstructions exposed to PMRT and 1385 reconstructions not exposed to PMRT. PMRT significantly increased the odds of any complication (OR 2.11, p = 0.01), implant loss (OR 1.88, p = 0.02), infection (OR 2.76, p = 0.004), and capsular contracture (OR 8.88, p < 0.001). However, PMRT was not associated with significantly increased odds of wound healing complications (OR 1.5, p = 0.36). Conclusions: PMRT after pre-pectoral DTI reconstruction significantly increases odds of complications, including infection, capsular contracture, and reconstructive failure. Plastic surgeons should be mindful of the sequelae of PMRT with prepectoral DTI reconstruction to improve pre-operative counseling and shared decision-making. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this case series is to evaluate the outcomes and safety of video-assisted mastectomy, illustrating the harmonious collaboration of oncologic and plastic surgery. This novel minimally invasive technique allows immediate prosthetic reconstruction and represents a cost-effective alternative to robotic breast surgery. Methods: Video-assisted, single-port nipple-sparing mastectomies were performed in patients with small to medium-sized breasts, followed by immediate direct-to-implant reconstruction with either prepectoral or dual plane implant placement. The patients’ electronic medical records were analyzed, including demographic characteristics, operative times and histopathology reports. Results: A total of 18 patients underwent successful video-assisted mastectomy, without conversion to traditional open procedure. Fifteen of the operations were risk-reducing mastectomies. Twelve patients had complementary procedures performed concurrently on the previously operated contralateral breast (delayed reconstruction/expander-to-implant exchange). Moreover, three patients benefited from additional minimally invasive techniques during the same surgery (prophylactic laparoscopic hysterectomy). Immediate breast reconstruction with polyurethane or microtextured breast implants up to 450 cc was performed, with satisfactory aesthetic outcomes and no cancer recurrences at 6 to 12 months postoperative follow-up. Early complications included transient hypercapnia, areolar congestion and cellulitis. No skin necrosis or implant-related complications were reported. The most frequently encountered late issues were contour irregularities. Conclusions: Video-assisted mastectomy facilitates the safe removal of proven pathologic or healthy breast tissue with minimal damage to the breast’s skin envelope, facilitating single-stage breast reconstruction. Full article

Background: Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) is a widely adopted technique following mastectomy in breast cancer patients. However, the impact of chemotherapy type and duration on the development of capsular contracture remains unclear. Methods: This nationwide, retrospective, cohort study used Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service data to identify breast cancer patients who received chemotherapy and underwent immediate IBBR between January 2015 and December 2018. Follow-up continued until January 2024, with a median follow-up of 5.2 years. A total of 4303 patients (direct-to-implant [DTI], n = 2083; tissue expander insertion [TEI], n = 2220) were included. Results: Chemotherapy type and duration were not significantly associated with capsular contracture risk in either the DTI or TEI groups. In the DTI cohort, no significant difference in contracture incidence was found between neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy before or after matching (p = 0.056 and p = 0.121, respectively). In the TEI cohort, an initially significant difference (p = 0.019) was no longer observed after matching (p = 0.213). Similarly, chemotherapy duration (≤12 weeks vs. >12 weeks) did not impact contracture risk in either cohort. Multivariate analysis identified age, radiotherapy, lymphedema, and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) as independent risk factors for contracture (p < 0.005). Comorbidities, such as diabetes and autoimmune diseases, also showed no significant association with contracture risk. Conclusions: These findings suggest that chemotherapy decisions should not be guided by contracture concerns. Instead, optimizing reconstruction outcomes should focus on modifiable factors, such as radiotherapy, lymphedema, and ALND. Full article

Background: Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM), given demonstrated oncologic safety, is widely used for both therapeutic and prophylactic mastectomy. The popularity of NSM has spurred advancements by breast and plastic surgeons, liberalizing the indications for NSM and improving patient and aesthetic reconstructive outcomes. This review explores these developments and establishes up-to-date surgical tenets for successful NSM and reconstruction. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published up to 2024. Articles were selected based on relevance, quantity, and documentation of clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Results: NSM is utilized frequently for both invasive breast cancers and prophylactic mastectomy, with expanded criteria for candidacy by breast surgeons. Staged procedures such as adjunct reduction, mastopexy, or nipple delay allow patients with larger or ptotic breasts to undergo NSM with comparable outcomes. Long-term outcome studies have identified important risk factors for complications, including smoking history, higher mastectomy weight, certain medical comorbidities, and suboptimal mastectomy flaps. Evolutions in reconstructive decision making in direct-to-implant and staged tissue expander placement have improved aesthetic results while accounting for poor mastectomy flap quality or adjuvant therapy. Long-term outcomes show NSM remains safe and has comparable rates of local recurrence. Patient-reported outcomes demonstrate satisfaction with NSM, especially in sexual and psychological wellbeing metrics. Conclusions: NSM has been demonstrated to be safe in long-term oncologic outcomes. Its widespread popularity over the past ten years has helped identify methods to improve upon surgical and aesthetic outcomes, including decision-making in reconstruction; considerations for challenging patient-related characteristics such as macromastia, ptosis, and NAC asymmetry; and novel advances in areas such as neurotization. Full article

Background/Objectives: The omental fat-augmented free flap (O-FAFF) is a novel technique for autologous breast reconstruction in patients who cannot use or who elect not to use more traditional donor sites. While the clinical outcomes of O-FAFF have been well studied, associated costs and resource utilization have not yet been investigated. The O-FAFF technique involves the use of an acellular dermal matrix and a two-team approach for laparoscopic harvest of the omentum, thereby increasing surgical and materials costs. This study compares the longitudinal cost-effectiveness study of O-FAFF breast reconstruction compared to reconstruction using implants or abdominal donor sites (deep inferior epigastric artery flap or transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap). Methods: This cost-effectiveness analysis compared O-FAFF to abdominal free flap and implant-based reconstruction in adults. Markov cohort modeling was used to study cost-effectiveness from the payer perspective. Results: Compared to implant-based reconstruction, the incremental cost of O-FAFF reconstruction was USD 9227 and the incremental gain in breast quality-adjusted life-year (B-QALY) was 0.95, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of USD 9712.64/B-QALY gained, which is well under the acceptable cost-effectiveness threshold of USD 50,000 per B-QALY. Compared to abdominal flap reconstruction, O-FAFF reconstruction was associated with an incremental decrease in direct costs of USD 1410.10 and an incremental gain in B-QALYs of 0.36 and was thus the dominant strategy. Conclusions: The O-FAFF breast reconstruction technique is a cost-effective alternative to more traditional methods of breast reconstruction, including abdominal free flap techniques and implant-based reconstruction. As such, the O-FAFF technique represents an important novel modality for primary autologous reconstruction. Full article

Background: Macromastia is a well-known issue in breast reconstruction. Skin-reducing mastectomy (SRM) was introduced as a skin-sparing mastectomy that utilizes a skin reduction pattern similar to breast reduction or breast lift surgery, specifically to manage hypertrophic and pendulous breasts. Over time, numerous authors have contributed to refining the SRM technique, leading to the development of various technical variants. However, the diversity of approaches inspired by SRM has created confusion, and clear surgical indications are lacking. Methods: We propose a unifying concept called breast reshaping mastectomy (BRM), which encompasses all techniques based on SRM principles. The BRM aims not only to preserve and reduce the breast skin envelope but also to immediately reshape it for a more aesthetic outcome. This approach is applicable to all mastectomies where skin envelope preservation (with or without the nipple-areola complex) is oncologically safe, a modification of breast skin coverage is needed for better aesthetic results, and an implant-based reconstruction is planned. Results: To define the BRM concept, we reviewed the existing literature on SRM and its related techniques. Our analysis focused on four key elements: skin incision pattern, implant coverage strategy, nipple-areola complex (NAC) management, and the choice between two-stage and direct-to-implant reconstruction. Conclusions: By integrating these four components into a single surgical framework, BRM provides a structured approach to breast reconstruction that enhances both oncologic safety and aesthetic outcomes. Standardizing these techniques could help clarify surgical indications and improve reconstructive planning for patients undergoing skin-sparing mastectomy. Full article

Background. In alloplastic breast reconstruction, the choice of implant positioning and the selection of periprosthetic devices is a critical and challenging decision. Surgeons must navigate between various biologic and synthetic meshes, including acellular dermal matrices (ADM). This study aimed to propose a simple selection tool for periprosthetic devices in prepectoral breast reconstruction. Methods. Patients scheduled for mastectomy followed by implant-based breast reconstruction between September 2019 and December 2023 were included. Preoperative risk assessments were performed using the Pre-Bra Score, and only those deemed suitable for prepectoral implant placement were selected. Mastectomy flap thickness was used as an independent criterion, and only cases with flap thicknesses less than 1 cm were included. Results. A total of 70 cases with an average flap thickness of 0.7 cm (range, 0.4–0.9 cm), as measured by preoperative contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM), underwent prepectoral reconstruction with ADM covering the implant. Of these, 25 patients (35%) received direct-to-implant reconstruction, while 45 (65%) underwent two-stage reconstruction with a temporary tissue expander. Postoperative complications were recorded during a minimum follow-up period of 6 months. Over an average follow-up duration of 17.5 months (range 6–36 months), no major complications were observed. Minor complications occurred in seven patients: infection (1.28%), seroma (3.85%), and superficial skin necrosis (1.28%). Additionally, 21 patients (30%) experienced rippling, and secondary lipofilling was scheduled. Conclusions. The incidence of rippling was reduced by 40% through ADM in this patient subgroup, reducing the need for secondary aesthetic refinements. Full article

Background/Objectives: Implant-based breast reconstruction has been essential since the 1960s, offering a faster and less invasive alternative to autologous reconstruction. Recent innovations—including direct-to-implant (DTI) reconstruction, advancements in surgical planes, synthetic meshes, and nipple-areolar complex (NAC) neurotization—have improved patient outcomes. This review explores these developments, analyzing their impact on breast reconstruction over the past two decades. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published up to 2024. Articles were selected based on relevance, quality, and documentation of clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Results: Findings indicate that DTI reconstruction reduces the need for multiple surgeries, especially in cases with sufficient mastectomy flap quality. Prepectoral placement showed benefits in postoperative comfort and recovery speed compared to subpectoral placement, but had specific risks, such as implant rippling. Synthetic meshes improved implant support and reduced complication rates, while neurotization has shown potential in restoring sensation to the nipple-areolar complex (NAC), addressing quality-of-life concerns. Conclusions: Innovations like DTI, prepectoral techniques, and adjunctive mesh and neurotization strategies are advancing patient outcomes. Future research should refine these methods, aiming to expand applicability and further improve aesthetic and sensory outcomes for breast cancer survivors. Full article

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer in patients with prior breast augmentation poses unique challenges for detection, diagnosis, and management. Mastectomy rates are increasing, and patients with prior augmentation often have a lower body mass index, making autologous techniques unsuitable. This study aims to assess the best reconstructive option in patients with a history of subglandular or dual-plane breast augmentation. Materials and methods: A prospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Patients with subglandular or dual-plane breast augmentation were included. Patients were divided into submuscular breast reconstruction (Group 2) or prepectoral breast reconstruction (Group 1) groups. Demographic and surgical data were collected. Results: A total of 47 patients were included, with 23 in Group 1 and 24 in Group 2. Complications occurred in 11 patients (23.4%), with significant differences between groups. The most common complication was seroma formation. Implant loss occurred in 4.3% of cases in Group 1, while no implant loss was observed in Group 2. Patient-reported satisfaction scores were similar between groups at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Subpectoral breast reconstruction with a tissue expander seems a safer and effective technique for patients with prior breast augmentation. It resulted in fewer complications. This approach should be considered as an option for breast reconstruction after mastectomy in this cohort of patients. Full article

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women and is the second leading cause of cancer-related death for women. Depending on the tumor grade and stage, breast cancer is primarily treated with surgery and antineoplastic therapy. Direct or indirect side effects, emotional trauma, and unpredictable outcomes accompany these traditional therapies, calling for therapies that could improve the overall treatment and recovery experiences of patients. Hydrogels, biomimetic materials with 3D network structures, have shown great promise for augmenting breast cancer therapy. Hydrogel implants can be made with adipogenic and angiogenic properties for tissue integration. 3D organoids of malignant breast tumors grown in hydrogels retain the physical and genetic characteristics of the native tumors, allowing for post-surgery recapitulation of the diseased tissues for precision medicine assessment of the responsiveness of patient-specific cancers to antineoplastic treatment. Hydrogels can also be used as carrier matrices for delivering chemotherapeutics and immunotherapeutics or as post-surgery prosthetic scaffolds. The hydrogel delivery systems could achieve localized and controlled medication release targeting the tumor site, enhancing efficacy and minimizing the adverse effects of therapeutic agents delivered by traditional procedures. This review aims to summarize the most recent advancements in hydrogel utilization for breast cancer post-surgery tissue reconstruction, tumor modeling, and therapy and discuss their limitations in clinical translation. Full article

Background: This study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast reconstruction trends in the United States, focusing on implant-based and autologous techniques, as well as the timing of reconstruction (immediate vs. delayed). Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from 2015 to 2022 from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ National Plastic Surgery Statistics was conducted. Annual trends in breast reconstruction procedures were analyzed, comparing the pre-pandemic (2015–2019) and pandemic (2020–2022) periods. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of missing data from 2019 and 2021. Results: The total number of breast reconstructions increased from 106,338 in 2015 to 151,641 in 2022. The proportion of implant-based reconstructions decreased from 81.41% pre-pandemic to 76.51% during the pandemic (p < 0.001), with a notable rise in direct-to-implant procedures from 10.37% to 19.12% (p < 0.001). Autologous reconstructions increased from 18.59% to 23.49% (p < 0.001). Among autologous techniques, DIEP flaps remained the most popular. Immediate reconstruction rates increased from 72.61% pre-pandemic to 75.57% during the pandemic, while delayed reconstruction rates decreased from 27.39% to 24.43% (p < 0.001). The sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these trends. Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant shift towards autologous breast reconstruction techniques, particularly DIEP flaps, and an increase in immediate reconstructions in the United States. Within implant-based reconstructions, the proportion of DTI procedures increased while the proportion of tissue expander procedures decreased. These changes likely reflect adaptations in surgical practice and decision-making processes in response to the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, rather than alterations in surgical techniques themselves. The insights gained from this study can help guide plastic surgeons and healthcare providers in preparing for future pandemics or similar disruptions. Full article

Women with BRCA gene mutations have a higher lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Furthermore, cancer is usually diagnosed at a younger age compared to the wild-type counterpart. Strategies for risk management include intensive surveillance or risk-reducing mastectomy. The latter provides a significant reduction of the risk of developing breast cancer, simultaneously ensuring a natural breast appearance due to the preservation of the skin envelope and the nipple-areola complex. Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most common technique after risk-reducing surgery and can be achieved with either a submuscular or a prepectoral approach, in one or multiple stages. This study analyzes the outcomes of the different reconstructive techniques through a retrospective review on 46 breasts of a consecutive, single-center case series. Data analysis was carried out with EpiInfo version 7.2. Results of this study show no significant differences in postoperative complications between two-stage tissue expander/implant reconstruction and direct-to-implant (DTI) reconstruction, with DTI having superior aesthetic outcomes, especially in the prepectoral subgroup. In our experience, the DTI prepectoral approach has proven to be a safe and less time-consuming alternative to the submuscular two-stage technique, providing a pleasant reconstructed breast and overcoming the drawbacks of subpectoral implant placement. Full article

Background: The aim of this paper is to present a preliminary experience of sub-muscular primary direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction without acellular dermal matrix (ADM), after salvage mastectomy for local recurrence following prior irradiation. Methods: A retrospective investigation was performed on a prospectively maintained database of breast reconstruction cases at our institution between January 2015 and December 2020. We considered only immediate DTI breast reconstructions without ADM following radiotherapy and salvage mastectomy for local recurrence, with at least a 12-month follow-up. Results: The study considered 18 female patients with an average of 68 years. According to the BREAST-Q questionnaire, all patients reported high levels of “satisfaction with outcome” with good “psychosocial wellness” and “physical impact” related to the reconstruction. The aesthetic evaluation showed a significant difference between the VAS score gave by the patient (mean 6.9) and the surgeon (mean 5.4). No implant exposure occurred in this series. In terms of complications, four patients (22%) suffered from wound dehiscence and were managed conservatively. Three patients (17%) required primary closure in day surgery following superficial mastectomy flap necrosis. Late capsular contracture was seen in seven patients (four Baker stage II and three Baker stage III, totally 39%); however, no patient was willing to undergo implant exchange. Conclusions: DTI breast reconstruction following prior irradiation can be considered as an option in patients who are not good candidates for autologous breast reconstruction. Our general outcomes compared favorably with literature data regarding the use of staged procedures, with acceptable complication rates and levels of patient satisfaction. Full article