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Keywords = skin-reducing mastectomy

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15 pages, 1337 KB  
Article
Pre-Pectoral Polyurethane Implant Reconstruction Following Batwing Skin-Reducing Mastectomy: A Single-Center Study
by Alessandra Veronesi, Edoardo Caimi, Gianmaria Ceglia, Federico Giovagnoli, Lavinia Galliera, Nicoletta Denami, Roberta Comunian, Mattia Federico Cavallero, Simone Furlan, Riccardo Di Giuli, Flavio Bucci, Francesco Klinger, Stefano Vaccari and Valeriano Vinci
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(8), 3110; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15083110 - 19 Apr 2026
Viewed by 461
Abstract
Background: Pre-pectoral direct-to-implant breast reconstruction is increasingly adopted after mastectomy because it avoids pectoralis major dissection, reduces postoperative pain, and eliminates animation deformity. However, reconstruction in patients with large or markedly ptotic breasts remains challenging because of skin envelope management, nipple–areola complex [...] Read more.
Background: Pre-pectoral direct-to-implant breast reconstruction is increasingly adopted after mastectomy because it avoids pectoralis major dissection, reduces postoperative pain, and eliminates animation deformity. However, reconstruction in patients with large or markedly ptotic breasts remains challenging because of skin envelope management, nipple–areola complex (NAC) viability, and implant stability. This study evaluated batwing skin-reducing mastectomy with immediate pre-pectoral polyurethane-coated implant reconstruction. Methods: We conducted a retrospective single-center study of consecutive patients who underwent batwing skin-reducing mastectomy with immediate pre-pectoral polyurethane-coated implant reconstruction between November 2022 and January 2025. Demographic, oncologic, operative, postoperative, and BREAST-Q data were collected. Primary outcomes included complications, oncologic events, and 12-month patient-reported outcomes. Results: Thirteen patients underwent reconstruction, accounting for 18 breasts, with a mean follow-up of 12.85 months. Mean age was 54.5 ± 9.7 years, mean body mass index was 27.0 ± 3.4 kg/m2, and mean Regnault ptosis grade was 3.46 ± 0.52. No seromas or oncologic recurrences were observed. One hematoma and one late infection requiring implant removal occurred. Superficial NAC/central flap epidermolysis developed in four patients and resolved conservatively; no full-thickness NAC necrosis occurred. BREAST-Q scores improved significantly in all domains at 12 months, including satisfaction with breasts, psychosocial well-being, physical well-being, and sexual well-being (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: Batwing skin-reducing mastectomy with immediate pre-pectoral polyurethane implant reconstruction appears safe and reproducible in selected patients with advanced ptosis, with acceptable complication rates and significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes. Full article
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15 pages, 1656 KB  
Article
Immediate Breast Reconstruction in Skin-Reducing Mastectomy Using Prepectoral Approach with Porcine-Derived Dermal Matrix and Autologous Dermal Sling: A Retrospective Observational Study
by Luca Galassi, Simone Scotti, Federica Facchinetti and Roberta Gilardi
Surgeries 2026, 7(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries7010041 - 23 Mar 2026
Viewed by 927
Abstract
Background: Immediate prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) following skin-reducing mastectomy (SRM) preserves the pectoralis major muscle, improving recovery and aesthetics. A dual-layer technique combining porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix (ADM) with an inferior autologous dermal sling may enhance implant support, vascularization, and lower-pole stability, [...] Read more.
Background: Immediate prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) following skin-reducing mastectomy (SRM) preserves the pectoralis major muscle, improving recovery and aesthetics. A dual-layer technique combining porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix (ADM) with an inferior autologous dermal sling may enhance implant support, vascularization, and lower-pole stability, particularly in patients with macromastia or ptosis. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 20 patients (24 breasts) who underwent SRM with immediate prepectoral IBR using the dual-layer technique between January 2023 and May 2025. Demographic, oncologic, and perioperative data were collected prospectively. Complications were classified by severity, and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the BREAST-Q scale preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests, Shapiro–Wilk tests, and effect size estimation (Cohen’s dz). Results: Mean age was 42 ± 6.3 years and BMI 26.1 ± 3.2 kg/m2. Mean mastectomy specimen weight was 432.5 ± 120.8 g, and implant volume 375 ± 60 cc. No reconstruction failures or infections occurred. Early complications were reported in 20.8% of breasts, including superficial nipple–areola complex epidermolysis (8.3%), seroma (4.2%), and hematoma (4.2%), all managed conservatively. At 12 months, BREAST-Q scores improved significantly: satisfaction with breasts increased from 63 ± 8 to 89 ± 11 (p < 0.001); psychosocial well-being from 60 ± 10 to 81 ± 11 (p < 0.001); and physical well-being from 62 ± 7 to 82 ± 10 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Dual-layer prepectoral reconstruction using porcine ADM and autologous dermal sling is safe, provides durable implant stability, and significantly improves patient satisfaction and quality of life following SRM. Full article
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16 pages, 1912 KB  
Article
Predictors of Complications in Prophylactic Mastectomy and Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction: A Retrospective, Single-Center Study
by Anna Wiesmeier, Lukas Prantl, Florian Zemann, Silvan Eisenmann, Vanessa Brebant, Dmytro Oliinyk, Philipp Unbehaun, Sophia Diesch, Marc Ruewe and Alexandra M. Anker
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(5), 2071; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15052071 - 9 Mar 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 678
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer in patients carrying gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Patients who opt for breast removal are offered tailored reconstructive options based on their medical history and prior treatments, and in these [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer in patients carrying gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Patients who opt for breast removal are offered tailored reconstructive options based on their medical history and prior treatments, and in these often young patients with limited autologous tissue reserves, implant-based reconstruction is frequently the option of choice. Complication rates of these procedures are relatively high and account for up to 30%. Subcutaneous mastectomy with primary implant reconstruction carries risks such as hematoma, seroma, skin necrosis, necrosis of the nipple–areola complex, and wound healing issues, which may necessitate revision surgery. This university-center retrospective analysis aims to improve outcomes by identifying patient- and surgery-related risk factors associated with postoperative complications in allogenic breast reconstruction following subcutaneous mastectomy. Methods: We analyzed 61 female patients and 122 breasts who underwent primary implant-based reconstruction after skin- or nipple-sparing subcutaneous mastectomy over three years between January 2021 and December 2023. Demographic and surgical variables were systematically collected and analyzed. Results: The mean patient age was 41.5 ± 10.3 years. A total of 13% of patients were active smokers, and 1.6% had diabetes mellitus. Overall, skin flap necrosis occurred in 27.9% of patients (22.1% of breasts), wound healing disorders in 19.7% of patients, wound infections in 9.8%, and revision surgery in 18.0%. A history of pregnancy was associated with skin flap necrosis (OR 10.07, 95% CI 1.79–190.06; p = 0.032); however, this finding must be interpreted with caution due to limited statistical power and model instability. Conclusions: This investigation revealed clinically relevant patterns suggesting potential risk factors for wound healing disorders and skin necrosis. Prospective studies are planned to further substantiate these findings and to help reduce overall complication rates associated with the procedure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Comprehensive Approaches in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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20 pages, 1483 KB  
Article
The Role of Indocyanine Green Angiography and Axillary Reverse Mapping in Breast Reconstruction Surgery
by Teodora Mihaela Peleaşǎ, Aniela Nodiți-Cuc, Rǎzvan Ioan Andrei, Maria Teodora Popa and Alexandru Blidaru
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(4), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15041638 - 21 Feb 2026
Viewed by 548
Abstract
Introduction: Implant-based breast reconstruction is associated with an increased risk of ischemic complications, which may result in implant loss, suboptimal aesthetic outcomes, and delays in adjuvant oncological treatment. Additionally, axillary surgery carries a risk of upper-limb lymphedema. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography enables [...] Read more.
Introduction: Implant-based breast reconstruction is associated with an increased risk of ischemic complications, which may result in implant loss, suboptimal aesthetic outcomes, and delays in adjuvant oncological treatment. Additionally, axillary surgery carries a risk of upper-limb lymphedema. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography enables more accurate real-time assessment of tissue perfusion than clinical evaluation alone, while axillary reverse mapping (ARM) facilitates the preservation of upper-limb lymphatics. The integration of these techniques reduces complications and improves both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Materials and methods: A total of 208 breast cancer patients who underwent mastectomy followed by immediate implant-based breast reconstruction were enrolled in this case–control study. The prospective intervention group received intraoperative ICG angiography at three time points and underwent ARM with ICG. Conventional surgical techniques were applied in the retrospective control group. Results: ICG angiography showed excellent diagnostic accuracy for predicting postoperative ischemic complications (AUC = 0.93, 95% CI 0.82–0.99, p < 0.001). Compared with the control group, patients in the ICG group had significantly lower rates of mastectomy skin flap necrosis (11.5% vs. 30.8%, p = 0.001), seroma (4.8% vs. 14.4%, p = 0.032), hematoma (1.9% vs. 9.6%, p = 0.033), and lymphedema (2.9% vs. 17.3%, p < 0.001). They also experienced shorter hospitalization (6.2 ± 1.9 vs. 8.0 ± 2.8 days, p < 0.001), fewer delays in adjuvant treatment initiation (16.3% vs. 32.7%, p = 0.010), and higher aesthetic satisfaction scores (81.41 ± 10.12 vs. 76.03 ± 9.74, p <0.001). Conclusions: Intraoperative indocyanine green angiography is a valuable tool for predicting ischemic complications in alloplastic breast reconstruction and is associated with reduced morbidity, fewer delays in adjuvant treatment, and improved aesthetic outcomes. Preliminary evidence suggests that axillary reverse mapping is associated with lower rates of upper-limb lymphedema. Full article
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11 pages, 562 KB  
Article
Symptomatic Outcomes After Autologous Fat Grafting in Irradiated Postmastectomy Chest Wall
by Razvan George Bogdan, Mara Nicolau, Alina Helgiu and Zorin Petrisor Crainiceanu
Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020281 - 22 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 477
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Radiotherapy of the chest wall after mastectomy frequently leads to fibrosis, reduced tissue elasticity, erythema, pain and chronic skin-related symptoms that complicate reconstructive strategies. Autologous fat grafting has been proposed as a regenerative option for radiation induced soft tissue damage, but clinical [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Radiotherapy of the chest wall after mastectomy frequently leads to fibrosis, reduced tissue elasticity, erythema, pain and chronic skin-related symptoms that complicate reconstructive strategies. Autologous fat grafting has been proposed as a regenerative option for radiation induced soft tissue damage, but clinical data focused on patient-reported symptoms remain limited. The objective of this study was to describe symptomatic and clinical changes after autologous fat grafting in irradiated postmastectomy chest wall tissue. Methods: This pilot observational study included five female patients with a history of mastectomy followed by adjuvant chest wall radiotherapy. All patients underwent a single session of standard autologous fat grafting without adipose derived stem cell enrichment. Patient-reported symptoms, including pruritus, local discomfort, burning sensation and erythema, were recorded preoperatively and at six months using a standardized 0 to 5 scale. Scar pliability was assessed by two experienced physicians using the same scale. Only descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: All patients demonstrated lower postoperative symptom scores at six months. Mean reductions were observed for erythema (71.4 percent), burning sensation (61.1 percent) and pruritus (57.1 percent). Local discomfort decreased by 33.3 percent. Mean scar pliability scores increased from 2.2 to 3.2. No postoperative complications, such as infection, fat necrosis or oil cyst formation, were recorded. All patients completed the six month follow up. Conclusions: In this small pilot observational study, autologous fat grafting was well tolerated and associated with descriptive improvement of patient-reported symptoms and scar pliability in irradiated postmastectomy chest wall tissue. These findings suggest a potential symptomatic benefit of fat grafting, while larger studies with objective imaging and histological correlation are required to confirm efficacy and durability. Full article
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13 pages, 1077 KB  
Article
Post-Operative Complications Do Not Influence Time to Adjuvant Treatment in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Implant-Based Reconstructions: Pre-Pectoral Versus Sub-Pectoral
by Gianluca Vanni, Marco Pellicciaro, Marco Materazzo, Alice Bertolo, Amir Sadri, Elisa Campanella, Denisa Eskiu, Ilaria Portarena, Benedetto Longo, Valerio Cervelli and Oreste Claudio Buonomo
Cancers 2026, 18(1), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18010109 - 29 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 819
Abstract
Background: Immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy has progressively shifted toward less invasive approaches. The pre-pectoral approach, avoiding muscle dissection, may reduce post-operative pain, surgical trauma, and recovery time. However, concerns regarding surgical complications and their potential impact on the timing of adjuvant treatments [...] Read more.
Background: Immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy has progressively shifted toward less invasive approaches. The pre-pectoral approach, avoiding muscle dissection, may reduce post-operative pain, surgical trauma, and recovery time. However, concerns regarding surgical complications and their potential impact on the timing of adjuvant treatments still persist. Methods: A retrospective monocentric study was conducted, including all patients who underwent mastectomy with implant-based breast reconstruction at the Breast Unit of Policlinico Tor Vergata in Rome between January 2014 and March 2024. Patients were classified according to the reconstructive technique as either pre-pectoral or sub-pectoral. Demographic, oncologic, and surgical data were collected and analyzed, with a particular focus on post-operative complications and the timing of adjuvant treatment initiation. Results: Of 622 patients, 366 (58.9%) underwent sub-pectoral reconstruction and 235 (37.7%) pre-pectoral. Overall, the complication rates were comparable between the two reconstructions (23.8% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.310). Delayed wound healing was higher in the pre-pectoral group (9.0% vs. 4.3%, p = 0.035), whereas post-operative bleeding occurred more often in sub-pectoral cases (4.9% vs. 0.4%, p = 0.057). Operative time was significantly shorter in the pre-pectoral group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified skin-reducing mastectomy (OR 2.11), smoking (OR 2.89), and diabetes mellitus (OR 3.06) as predictors of delayed adjuvant therapy, whereas the reconstruction technique was not associated with delays. Full article
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15 pages, 282 KB  
Article
Effects of 4-Week Complex Decongestive Therapy in the Management of Breast Cancer-Related Arm Lymphedema in Montenegrin Women Post-Mastectomy and Chemo/Radiotherapy
by Miloš Kuzmanović and Dušan Mustur
Healthcare 2025, 13(20), 2596; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13202596 - 15 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2120
Abstract
Objectives: In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of complete decongestive therapy (CDT) on reducing lymphedema and enhancing gross motor strength (GMS), functional ability in the upper arm, quality of life (QoL), and pain relief among women who had undergone breast [...] Read more.
Objectives: In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of complete decongestive therapy (CDT) on reducing lymphedema and enhancing gross motor strength (GMS), functional ability in the upper arm, quality of life (QoL), and pain relief among women who had undergone breast cancer surgery and chemo/radiotherapy in Montenegro. Methods: This prospective observational/pilot study included 50 women with breast cancer-related arm lymphedema, with an average age of 60.88 ± 12.78 years. The four-week Phase1-CDT program involved manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandaging, skin care, tailored kinesitherapy and patient education. Measurements included arm edema circumference compared to the contralateral arm, pain severity (VAS), arm muscle strength (MMT), functional ability (QDASH), and overall QoL (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: Following CDT, significant reductions in lymphedema circumference were observed in various areas and overall (p = 0.002), along with improvements in overall upper-arm GMS (p = 0.002) and specific upper-extremity movements such as wrist and forearm flexion, supination, and external rotation (p < 0.001). Significant improvements were also observed in pain severity and QDASH scores (p < 0.001), and overall QoL significantly increased (p < 0.001). Muscle strength in the hand, wrist, forearm, and shoulder also improved significantly (p < 0.05). We found a negative correlation between edema size and motor function in different muscle groups of the upper extremities, as well as between the QDASH score, quality of life, and overall upper-arm gross motor strength. Conclusions: It was observed that the four-week Phase 1-CDT program significantly improved lymphedema severity, functional abilities, gross motor strength, quality of life, and pain levels in Montenegrin women with breast cancer who had undergone mastectomy and chemo/radiotherapy. Our findings are limited to the immediate post-intervention period. This study is the first of its kind in Montenegro, suggesting the need for future randomized studies with a larger number of participants are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Primary Health Care and Community Health)
12 pages, 965 KB  
Article
Short-Term Outcomes of Post-Mastectomy Immediate Pre-Pectoral Reconstruction with Implant and Acellular Dermal Matrix
by Beatriz Costeira, Beatriz Gonçalves, António Soares, Rodrigo Oom, Cristina Sousa Costa, João Vargas Moniz, Nuno Abecasis and Catarina Rodrigues dos Santos
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(20), 7181; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14207181 - 11 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1264
Abstract
Introduction: Pre-pectoral breast reconstruction using implant and acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has become one of the main techniques for immediate reconstruction after mastectomy, with variable approaches and complication rates reported in literature. This study aims to evaluate the early outcomes of this technique, [...] Read more.
Introduction: Pre-pectoral breast reconstruction using implant and acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has become one of the main techniques for immediate reconstruction after mastectomy, with variable approaches and complication rates reported in literature. This study aims to evaluate the early outcomes of this technique, at a single tertiary oncology center. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database including women who underwent immediate pre-pectoral reconstruction with implant and ADM following mastectomy between January 2021 and August 2023. The primary outcome was reconstructive failure within 3 months, defined as the need for removal of the implant placed during the index surgery. Secondary outcomes included complications at 3 months and predictive factors for complications. Results: A total of 247 reconstructions were performed in 200 patients, 83.4% following oncological mastectomy and 16.6% after risk-reducing surgery. The median age was 49 (43–56) years; 15.5% of patients were obese and 26.5% were active smokers. Skin-sparing mastectomy was performed in 16.6% and nipple-sparing in 83.4%, with a Wise-pattern incision in 73.3%. Reconstructive failure occurred in 7.7%, with one case (0.4%) of total reconstruction loss. The overall complication rate was 14.6%—skin flap ischemia occurred in 12.6%, primary implant infection in 2.0% and bleeding in 0.8%. The reoperation rate was 8.4%. No predictive factors for complications were identified. Conclusions: In this series, including a high proportion of high-risk patients, immediate pre-pectoral reconstruction with implant and ADM appears safe, with a low rate of early complications. No predictive factors for complications were found, supporting widening its indications. Full article
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24 pages, 1052 KB  
Review
Recurrent Erysipelas: Clinical Challenges and Strategies for Prevention—A Narrative Literature Review
by Dominika Maria Jaskóła-Polkowska, Krystian Blok, Anna Skibińska and Andrzej Chciałowski
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2448; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102448 - 8 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 7130
Abstract
Recurrent erysipelas is a common and clinically significant condition that poses challenges for both patients and healthcare systems. Each episode may damage lymphatic vessels, leading to chronic lymphedema, which perpetuates the risk of further relapses. Recurrence rates remain high, ranging from 11% in [...] Read more.
Recurrent erysipelas is a common and clinically significant condition that poses challenges for both patients and healthcare systems. Each episode may damage lymphatic vessels, leading to chronic lymphedema, which perpetuates the risk of further relapses. Recurrence rates remain high, ranging from 11% in outpatients during the first year to up to 46% of hospitalized patients within three years. The lower limbs are the most frequent site, although recurrences may also occur in other regions, such as the upper limb after mastectomy with lymph node dissection. This review summarizes current knowledge on risk factors, preventive measures, and chemoprophylaxis in recurrent erysipelas. Modifiable risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, venous insufficiency, tinea pedis, and poor hygiene play an important role, while non-modifiable factors include age, sex, and a history of prior episodes. Non-pharmacological strategies—weight reduction, glycemic control, smoking cessation, compression therapy, and meticulous skin care—form the cornerstone of prevention and may reduce the need for long-term antibiotics. Antibiotic prophylaxis, most commonly with oral penicillin V or intramuscular benzathine penicillin, has been shown to lower recurrence rates. However, efficacy may be reduced in patients with chronic edema or severe obesity. Macrolides serve as alternatives in penicillin-allergic patients, but concerns remain about resistance, adverse effects, and drug–drug interactions. In conclusion, recurrent erysipelas requires a multifaceted approach. While antibiotic prophylaxis is effective, its long-term success depends on simultaneous management of underlying conditions. Further studies are needed to define optimal regimens, treatment duration, and non-antibiotic alternatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases)
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21 pages, 2757 KB  
Article
Video-Assisted Mastectomy with Immediate Breast Reconstruction: First Clinical Experience and Outcomes in an Eastern European Medical Center
by Adrian Daniel Tulin, Daniela-Elena Ion, Adelaida Avino, Daniela-Elena Gheoca-Mutu, Abdalah Abu-Baker, Andrada-Elena Țigăran, Teodora Timofan, Ileana Ostafi, Cristian Radu Jecan and Laura Răducu
Cancers 2025, 17(13), 2267; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17132267 - 7 Jul 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2429
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Challenges in Breast Cancer Surgery: 2nd Edition)
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35 pages, 392 KB  
Guidelines
Postmastectomy Breast Reconstruction in Patients with Non-Metastatic Breast Cancer: An Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) Clinical Practice Guideline
by Toni Zhong, Glenn G. Fletcher, Muriel Brackstone, Simon G. Frank, Renee Hanrahan, Vivian Miragias, Christiaan Stevens, Danny Vesprini, Alyssa Vito and Frances C. Wright
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(6), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32060357 - 17 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2426
Abstract
Several postmastectomy breast reconstruction techniques and procedures have been implemented, although with limited evaluation of benefits and adverse effects. We conducted a systematic review on the plane and timing of reconstruction, and on the use of nipple-sparing mastectomy, acellular dermal matrix, and autologous [...] Read more.
Several postmastectomy breast reconstruction techniques and procedures have been implemented, although with limited evaluation of benefits and adverse effects. We conducted a systematic review on the plane and timing of reconstruction, and on the use of nipple-sparing mastectomy, acellular dermal matrix, and autologous fat grafting as the evidence base for an updated clinical practice guideline on breast reconstruction for Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario). Both immediate and delayed reconstruction may be considered, with preferred timing depending on factors such as patient preferences, type of mastectomy, skin perfusion, comorbidities, pre-mastectomy breast size, and desired reconstructive breast size. Immediate reconstruction may provide greater psychological or quality of life benefits. In patients who are candidates for skin-sparing mastectomy and without clinical, radiological, and pathological indications of nipple-areolar complex involvement, nipple-sparing mastectomy is recommended provided it is technically feasible and acceptable aesthetic results can be achieved. Surgical factors including incision location are important to reduce necrosis by preserving blood supply and to minimize nerve damage. There is a role for both prepectoral and subpectoral implants; risks and benefits will vary, and decisions should be made during consultation between the patient and surgeons. In patients who are suitable candidates for implant reconstruction and have adequate mastectomy flap thickness and vascularity, prepectoral implants should be considered. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has led to an increased use of prepectoral reconstruction. ADM should not be used in case of poor mastectomy flap perfusion/ischemia that would otherwise be considered unsuitable for prepectoral reconstruction. Care should be taken in the selection and handling of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to minimize risks of infection and seroma. Limited data from small studies suggest that prepectoral reconstruction without ADM may be feasible in some patients. Autologous fat grafting is recommended as a treatment for contour irregularities, rippling following implant-based reconstruction, and to improve tissue quality of the mastectomy flap after radiotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)
12 pages, 1058 KB  
Article
Indocyanine Green Angiography to Predict Complications in Subcutaneous Mastectomy: A Single-Center Experience
by Letizia Cuniolo, Raquel Diaz, Dafne Anastasia, Federica Murelli, Chiara Cornacchia, Francesca Depaoli, Marco Gipponi, Cecilia Margarino, Chiara Boccardo, Simonetta Franchelli, Marianna Pesce, Amandine Causse D’agraives, Rebecca Allievi, Martina Cossu, Franco De Cian and Piero Fregatti
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(6), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15060242 - 10 Jun 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1541
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In the setting of breast surgery, indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) allows estimating the perfusion of cutaneous tissues during surgical interventions, in order to reduce vascularization-related complications. This study has a dual objective: to evaluate the correlation between preoperative factors and the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In the setting of breast surgery, indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) allows estimating the perfusion of cutaneous tissues during surgical interventions, in order to reduce vascularization-related complications. This study has a dual objective: to evaluate the correlation between preoperative factors and the level of skin vascularization, measured by ICGA, in patients undergoing subcutaneous mastectomy for breast cancer; and to establish any relationship between low intraoperative vascularization and the onset of postoperative complications. Methods: This is a preliminary, non-randomized, prospective clinical study that includes 46 female patients undergoing subcutaneous mastectomy with reconstruction for breast cancer between February 2022 and July 2024. The relationship between vascularization and the following preoperative variables was assessed: smoking, previous breast surgeries, prior radiotherapy, neoadjuvant or prior chemotherapy/anti-Her2 therapy, and the thickness of breast subcutaneous tissue evaluated through mammography. For the analysis, three ICGA procedures were performed, using 0.125 mg/kg of indocyanine green (ICG) for each procedure before the surgical incision (V1), at the end of the demolition phase (V2), and at the end of the reconstruction phase (V3). The results of this analysis were finally correlated with the occurrence of any postoperative complications. Results: Vascularization was conventionally classified as “low” and “good” using a cutoff of 33%. Previous surgeries on the ipsilateral breast and neoadjuvant or prior chemotherapy/anti-Her2 therapy were found to be predictive factors of “low” vascularization (p = 0.031). Patients with “low” vascularization at time V3 showed a significantly higher risk of developing complications (p = 0.038). Incision length emerged as an independent predictor of complications, with a 23% increase in risk per additional centimeter (p = 0.006), independent of perfusion level. Conclusions: This study supports the use of ICGA as a useful tool to improve outcomes in patients undergoing subcutaneous mastectomy with prosthetic reconstruction for breast cancer. The results of this preliminary work are encouraging, and recruiting a larger number of patients could provide more significant data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Personalized Therapy in Clinical Medicine)
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15 pages, 663 KB  
Systematic Review
Salvage of the Mastectomy Pocket in Infected Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Using Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy with Instillation and Dwell: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Laura De Pellegrin, Isabel Zucal, Giorgio Treglia, Corrado Parodi, Riccardo Schweizer, Marco De Monti and Yves Harder
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2730; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082730 - 16 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1899
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer, irrespective of gender, stands as the most prevalent cancer globally, with an annual estimate of 2.3 million new cases. Surgical intervention, including therapeutic mastectomy (excluding prophylactic procedures), is performed on approximately 28% of patients, necessitating subsequent breast reconstruction. Although implant-based [...] Read more.
Background: Breast cancer, irrespective of gender, stands as the most prevalent cancer globally, with an annual estimate of 2.3 million new cases. Surgical intervention, including therapeutic mastectomy (excluding prophylactic procedures), is performed on approximately 28% of patients, necessitating subsequent breast reconstruction. Although implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) is frequently employed due to its relative ease compared to autologous methods, it presents a notable risk for complications at mid-term such as peri-prosthetic infections. These complications can lead to implant loss and the eventual compromise of the mastectomy pocket. To address these complications, negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell (NPWTi-d) emerges as a promising rescue intervention, known for its capacity to significantly reduce bacterial load and potentially salvage compromised soft tissues. However, the evidence supporting its effectiveness in infected pockets after mastectomy is currently insufficient. This study aims at investigating the efficacy of NPWTi-d in the management of peri-prosthetic mastectomy pocket infection. Methods: A thorough literature search has been concluded through PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases up until 18th March 2025 on evaluating NPWTi-d’s ability to manage peri-prosthetic infections and preserve mastectomy pockets for subsequent reconstruction. Furthermore, a meta-analysis on the salvage rate of the mastectomy pocket was carried out, while for other outcomes, a descriptive analysis was applied. Results: Nine studies (n = 230 patients) were included, investigating whether the us NPWTi-d was successful in treating peri-prosthetic infection and preserving the mastectomy pocket for subsequent reconstruction by expander or implant. The pooled salvage rate of the implant-based BR due to the use of NPWTi-d was 86.1% (95%CI: 80.6–91.6%). Preservation of the skin envelope avoided secondary reconstruction after a defined time interval, reducing number and complexity of surgeries and related costs. Conclusions: This innovative surgical approach should be considered in selected cases of infected implants after breast reconstruction in breast cancer centers. However, the actual low level of evidence is based on case series, and it is not possible to define generally accepted recommendations for the use of NPWTi-d to save the mastectomy pocket. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Progress of Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Surgery)
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12 pages, 1208 KB  
Article
Oncological Safety of Prepectoral Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction After Conservative Mastectomy: Insights from 842 Consecutive Breast Cancer Patients
by Lorenzo Scardina, Alba Di Leone, Alejandro Martin Sanchez, Cristina Accetta, Liliana Barone Adesi, Ersilia Biondi, Beatrice Carnassale, Sabatino D’Archi, Flavia De Lauretis, Enrico Di Guglielmo, Antonio Franco, Stefano Magno, Francesca Moschella, Maria Natale, Marzia Salgarello, Eleonora Savia, Marta Silenzi, Giuseppe Visconti, Riccardo Masetti and Gianluca Franceschini
Cancers 2025, 17(6), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17060925 - 8 Mar 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2430
Abstract
Background: Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) following conservative mastectomy is the most common approach for women undergoing breast cancer surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the oncological outcomes of conservative mastectomy combined with prepectoral IBBR to the subpectoral technique. Methods: The [...] Read more.
Background: Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) following conservative mastectomy is the most common approach for women undergoing breast cancer surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the oncological outcomes of conservative mastectomy combined with prepectoral IBBR to the subpectoral technique. Methods: The clinical and demographic data of consecutive breast cancer patients who underwent conservative mastectomy with either prepectoral or subpectoral IBBR between January 2018 and December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was the impact of conservative mastectomy with prepectoral IBBR on local recurrence-free survival (LRFS). Secondary outcomes included distant disease-free survival (DDFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: A total of 842 women (with a median age of 46 years and a range of 20–79 years) were included in the study. Of these, 648 patients (77.0%) underwent prepectoral IBBR, while 194 (23.0%) received subpectoral IBBR. The median follow-up was 32 months (3–74). Locoregional relapse occurred in 19 patients (2.9%) in the prepectoral group and 14 (7.2%) in the subpectoral group. Distant metastases were observed in 21 (3.2%) patients in the prepectoral group and 11 (5.7%) in the subpectoral group. Deaths were reported in eight patients (1.2%) in the prepectoral group and five (2.6%) in the subpectoral group. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of the LRFS, DDFS, and OS (p = 0.676; p = 0.994; p = 0.940, respectively). Conclusions: Our study indicates that conservative mastectomy combined with prepectoral IBBR produces similar results to those of the subpectoral approach, with no significant differences in LRFS, DDFS, and OS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neoadjuvant Therapy of Breast Cancer)
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12 pages, 1426 KB  
Article
Postoperative Outcomes of One-Step Implant-Based Breast and Ovarian Surgery in High-Penetrance Gene Mutation: A Single-Center Experience
by Buse Irem Koc, Sevket Barıs Morkavuk, Simay Akyuz, Guzin Aygun, Ozhan Ozdemir and Mehmet Ali Gulcelik
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14061784 - 7 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1283
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate skin-sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction complication rates in patients operated on due to high penetrant gene profile. All patients went to skin-sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction and risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy. The effect of radiotherapy and chemotherapy [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate skin-sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction complication rates in patients operated on due to high penetrant gene profile. All patients went to skin-sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction and risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy. The effect of radiotherapy and chemotherapy on wound healing is a frequently discussed topic in the literature. However, studies on the effect of these on patients undergoing implant-based reconstruction are rare. In our clinic, two surgeries are performed under the same anesthesia and it is aimed to investigate the effect of this situation on complications in this rare patient group. In this retrospective study, we report our clinical experience regarding complication rates due to these factors among the high penetrant gene group. Methods: Between June 2022 and June 2024, 61 patients were grouped according to demographic data. Post-operative complications were defined as any of the following: major complications which were active bleeding or wound dehiscence; minor complications which were hematoma, seroma, surgical-site infection, <20% skin or nipple necrosis, and reoperation due to wound dehiscence or any other complication. Patients were compared in terms of complications according to whether they received previous radiotherapy (RT), neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CT), or underwent skin-reducing mammoplasty. Results: Patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, patients receiving preoperative RT, and patients undergoing skin-reducing mastectomy were compared in terms of major and minor complications. While neoadjuvant CT and preoperative RT only increased the risk of seroma, it was found that skin-reducing mastectomy had no significant effect on complication rates. Conclusions: Skin-sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction and risk-reducing salphingo-oophorectomy is a comprehensive operation method in this patient group. Complication control can be achieved by performing two surgeries in a single anesthesia period, using the spy immunofluorescence device for vascularization control, and performing all surgeries with the same experienced team. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section General Surgery)
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