Histological comparison between irradiated and non-irradiated breasts in breast reconstruction

Introduction: The treatment of breast cancer includes not only curative therapies but also breast reconstruction. Radiotherapy, an adjuvant strategy, provides favorable outcomes by reducing the rate of recurrence of the disease. This study aimed to compare histological differences between irradiated and non-irradiated breasts in the same patient. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study of patients undergoing breast reconstruction with prosthesis or expander under pectoralis major muscle flap that compared histological skin patterns, subcutaneous cell tissue, pectoralis major muscle, and implant capsule of irradiated and non-irradiated breasts in paired samples of the same patient. All patients included in this study were irradiated in only one breast. The results of the anatomopathological analysis were compared to clinical findings and intraoperative macroscopic aspects. Results: The study included a total of 7 patients with a mean age of 52.15 years. The main histological findings in the skin and subcutaneous cellular tissue of the irradiated breast were as follows: epidermal hyperplasia, flattening of the papillary layer, atrophy of the skin appendages, vascular congestion in fatty tissue, high density of skin collagen fibers, hyalinization, and reduction of elastic fibers in the deep dermis and unidirectional alignment of collagen fibers. The main histological findings for the capsule and pectoralis major muscle in the irradiated breast were as follows: lower density of elastic fibrosis, perivascular fibrosis, synovial metaplasia, skeletal muscle sequestration at the interface with the capsule, capsular hyalinization, and capsular fribrosclerosis. Conclusion: We found common histological changes in irradiated breasts in most patients. These findings are compatible with the clinical and macroscopic changes observed. This study presents itself as a pilot for the development of further studies investigating the physiopathological mechanisms of the described histological changes

Alternative technique for the treatment of osteonecrosis in breasts: description and results

Introduction: This work describes and presents the results of an alternative technique for treating steatonecrosis by liposuction using a specific cannula, with good physical and imaging results. Steatonecrosis is a complication that frequently occurs during mammary surgeries, especially during mammary reconstructions and in conservative surgery or TRAM. Steatonecrosis is characterized initially by hardening of the tissue that may develop into nodules of different sizes in any mammary region with oily cysts and fibrosis; consequently, steatonecrosis is a constant concern for patients, oncologists, breast cancer specialists, and plastic surgeons due to the possibility of tumor recurrence. Method: A retrospective review of the medical records of the patients undergoing procedures related to the breast, either reconstructive or aesthetic, was performed. Patients who developed steatonecrosis and were treated by liposuction, similar to the bone drilling technique performed by orthopedic surgeons for the treatment of bone necrosis, were included in the study. Results: Eight patients from the study period reviewed were selected. The mean age was 56 years. Most of the patients showed deformity in the affected breast, with oily cysts, reported in 5 patients (62.5%), being the most common deformity. Breast cancer history was reported for 75% of the patients. Conclusion: The individualization of the patient is the key to successful treatment of steatonecrosis and an essential tool to satisfy the expectations and desires of the patient after this complication. Each technique has its indications, advantages and limitations, which should be thoroughly discussed with the patient to obtain the best possible result

Retrospective analysis of the effects of radiotherapy on the areolas reconstructed with a total skin graft

Introduction: Breast cancer has increased progressively in recent years, and with this, the need for diagnosis and earlier treatment has also increased. Currently, in Brazil, breast cancer accounts for 29.7% of cancer cases in women. The reconstruction of the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) has focused on greater attention due to the search for symmetry and naturalness, which is the final stage of this whole process. The objective is to evaluate the maintenance of the size, contour, color, symmetry and shape change of reconstructed NAC after mastectomies associated with radiotherapy. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted analyzing the evolution of reconstructed areolas after total mastectomy associated with adjuvant treatment with radiotherapy. Two groups were selected: group 1 (unilateral reconstruction) and group 2 (bilateral reconstruction). Comparisons were made between the reconstructed NAC areola, group 1, with that of the contralateral NAC and in group 2, between the two reconstructed areolas Results: After the inclusion of 56 patients in the study, 71 reconstructed areolar complexes were included. Symmetry was classified as good in 77.46% of all cases (p=0.706). Twenty-five reconstructions were performed in areas under the effect of radiotherapy, and only 9 cases showed decreased areola size (p=0.050), evolving with an asymmetry in 8 cases, 4 in the radiotherapy region (p=0.706). The areolar contour showed a similarity between cases treated with radiotherapy and untreated (p=0.918). Conclusion: Adjuvant radiotherapy was a predisposing factor for changes that may arise during the postoperative period of reconstruction of the nipple-areolar complex, according to statistical analysis

Triangular flap for nipple reconstruction

Introduction: Despite the many published techniques, there are difficulties in satisfactorily achieving a nipple areola complex (NAC) with long-lasting results. The objective is to demonstrate results using the triangular cutaneous flap technique in nipple reconstructions and compare it with previously published techniques. Methods: A prospective study of nipple reconstruction using the triangular cutaneous flap technique from January 1, 2015, to March 1, 2016. Surgical technique: Marking of an equilateral triangle; decortication of the three points of the triangle that are united in the form of an envelope, with the central area adhered to the neo-breast; total skin grafting for construction of the areola. The patients were evaluated and results classified as fully satisfactory, satisfactory, partially satisfactory, or unsatisfactory. Primary type of breast reconstruction, postoperative or neoadjuvant chemo- or radiotherapy complications, comorbidities, and postoperative complications were evaluated. Statistical evaluation was performed using Fisher's exact test, chi-square test, and post hoc analysis (significance p < 0.05). Results: Thirty-one patients underwent nipple reconstruction using the triangular cutaneous flap technique, 17 unilateral and 14 bilateral, totaling 45 reconstructions. Mean age was 50 years, mean body mass index was 24.95 kg/m2, and mean follow-up period was 14 months. Rated: demographic data, complications of patients versus the type of primary breast reconstruction and completion of chemo- and/or radiotherapy, types of breast reconstruction performed, evaluation of the nipples versus reconstruction, evaluation of the nipple reconstruction technique versus satisfaction of evaluators, and nipple complications versus reconstruction technique. Conclusion: The original triangular cutaneous flap technique presents the advantages of easy execution and safety in reconstruction of the NAC

Evaluation of the effects of radiotherapy on breast reconstruction with a transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap

Introduction: Radiation negatively influences the results of breast reconstruction using implants. However, the effects of radiation on breast reconstruction with autologous tissue is still unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the postoperative complications in patients who underwent immediate and late breast reconstruction with a transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap and statistically correlate these complications with the use of radiotherapy (RT). Methods: A retrospective survey of the medical records of patients who underwent breast reconstruction was conducted. Of the patients, 126 underwent breast reconstruction with a TRAM flap between 2004 and 2011. The presence or absence of RT and postoperative complications in the immediate and late reconstructions was assessed. The patients were divided into 3 groups as follows: 1) without RT (TRAM alone group), 2) TRAMRT group, and 3) RTTRAM group. The patients in each group were evaluated for the presence and absence of minor and major complications, and results were statistically analyzed. Results: The groups were considered homogenous for age and body mass index. The incidence of major complications was higher in the groups with RT after TRAM (29.6%) than in the other groups, namely the groups without RT (23.4%) and with RT before TRAM flap reconstruction (5.6%). However, the differences among the groups were not statistically significant. No evidence of statistically significant differences in minor complications were found among the groups. Conclusion: In this study, adjuvant RT was not a potentiating factor of complications in the patients who underwent immediate reconstruction with a TRAM flap after mastectomy

Mastoplasty with inclusion of prosthesis during abdominoplasty in post-bariatric patients

INTRODUCTION: Augmentation mammaplasty during abdominoplasty reduces surgical time and has a better aesthetic effect as it only leaves a single scar. The authors of this study assessed the results obtained in post-bariatric patients undergoing this procedure in the plastic surgery service at Daher Hospital. METHODS: This was a retrospective longitudinal observational study. Of the 161 post-bariatric patients evaluated, 27 had indications for breast augmentation during abdominoplasty. The surgical technique consisted of classical abdominoplasty and creation of tunnels on the upper and middle abdomen for insertion of implants. RESULTS: The age of the patients ranged from 35 to 50 years, with a mean of 42.4 years. The volume of the prosthesis ranged from 285 to 300 ml. The average body mass index was 22.2 kg/m2.The average surgical time period was 2 hours and 35 minutes. None of the following complications were observed: deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, skin necrosis, hematoma, capsular contracture and/or event. Two patients (7.4%) presented with seroma in the mammary region and one patient developed infection. CONCLUSION: The aesthetic results were satisfactory, as there was only a single scar for these two procedures in post-bariatric patients. Selecting the ideal patient was crucial for good operative success

Breast reconstruction in young women and their peculiarities

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the main features and methods used in breast reconstruction in young women considering their unique characteristics. METHODS: A retrospective records review of patients who underwent mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction between January 2008 and December 2015 was conducted, selecting those reconstructions that were performed in women younger than 40 years. RESULTS: Forty-three patients were selected. The average age was 33.86 years. Many had some comorbidities, the most common being overweight and anxiety/depressive disorder. Fourteen patients had a family history of the disease. Most were diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. Additional cancer treatments were administered in most cases. All patients underwent a full mastectomy in the breast with cancer, and in 16, there was the option of contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy. Of the 43 reconstructions, 36 were immediate and 7 were delayed, and 17 involved use of implants, 13 involved use of tissue expanders, 4 involved the TRAM, and 9 involved the GD. We observed 15 complications; the most severe were infection with reconstruction loss in one patient and areola necrosis in another. CONCLUSIONS: Young women undergoing breast reconstruction represent a population subgroup with its own characteristics. The tumors and personal and social patterns differ, and based on this long list of variables, treatment options are diverse. In our series, breast implants and tissue expanders were often most used

Comparison between surgical sutures and Prineo® in terms of esthetic result and scar formation

INTRODUCTION: Wound healing is a well-organized, directed process of tissue repair. The process can be expedited using topical glues and adhesives, which offer a non-invasive, easily removable alternative to suturing. Furthermore, such products have good tensile strength and involve lower application time. In particular, the Prineo® adhesive is applied to a polyester mesh that covers the wound. METHOD: We carried out a retrospective, cross-sectional study, with subsequent statistical analysis , involving 101 surgical procedures in which wound closure was performed using either nylon sutures or Prineo®. All the procedures were performed between 2012 and 2014. RESULTS: Six patients had contact dermatitis after Prineo® was used, with statistical significance (p = 0.042). Furthermore, Prineo® decreased the rate of scar enlargement (p < 0.05) . There was no statistical difference between the Prineo® and suture groups in terms of scar quality (p = 0.068); in both groups, the scar result was mostly excellent (87 %) to good (27%). CONCLUSION: Patients whose wounds were closed using Prineo® a system involving octyl-2-cyanoacrylate and an associated polyester mesh displayed lower rates of scar enlargement, which depended on whether the thickness of the dermis was satisfactory. However, the same patients had higher rates of contact dermatitis than those whose wounds were closed using surgical sutures. Both groups showed excellent to good scar quality, with no significant difference in terms of esthetic scar results

Assessment of immediate symmetrization in breast reconstruction

INTRODUCTION: The surgical treatment of breast cancer frequently results in mutilation. Breast reconstruction in mastectomized women aims to create a new esthetically acceptable breast symmetrical to the contralateral breast. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of symmetrization of the contralateral breast simultaneously with breast reconstruction, discuss possible complications, and perform a brief review of the literature. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Plastic Surgery of Hospital Daher from October 2013 to February 2015. Breast reconstruction outcomes immediately after mastectomy for breast cancer were assessed, and all patients undergoing symmetrization of the contralateral breast in the same surgical stage using the same surgical technique were selected for inclusion and statistical analysis. RESULTS: The study comprised 42 patients within the established criteria, totaling 21 reconstructions with simultaneous symmetrization (Group 1) and 21 symmetrization procedures in two stages (Group 2). The mean age was 53.86 years in Group 1 and 52.62 years in the control group. The groups were comparable in all variables. Data regarding postoperative complications were analyzed. Some of the studied patients did not complete all stages of reconstruction. The group that underwent immediate symmetrization attained more symmetry. The patients aged 45 years and with lower body mass index attained more symmetry in Group 1. CONCLUSION: The implementation of symmetrization procedures at the same stage of unilateral breast reconstruction is associated with low complication rates and revision surgeries. In selected cases, immediate symmetrization may be preferable to the procedure in another surgical stage

Reconstrução do complexo areolopapilar com double opposing flap

INTRODUÇÃO: A reconstrução do complexo areolopapilar (CAP) é etapa fundamental na reconstituição mamária nos casos em que há amputação desse complexo durante a mastectomia. Uma técnica muito eficiente é a do double opposing flap, que possibilita reconstruir o CAP, propiciando diâmetro adequado, boa projeção e simetria em relação ao CAP contralateral, com a possibilidade de fechar a área doadora e com todas as cicatrizes contidas na topografia da nova aréola reconstruída. O objetivo deste estudo é demonstrar os resultados obtidos nas reconstruções do CAP com o double opposing flap nas reconstituições mamárias. MÉTODO: Estudo retrospectivo de 24 pacientes, nas quais foram reconstruídos 31 CAPs (17 unilaterais e 7 bilaterais) utilizando a técnica referida, entre julho de 2008 e junho de 2010. Os resultados foram avaliados objetiva e subjetivamente. RESULTADOS: Na análise subjetiva, o grau de satisfação das pacientes foi elevado no que concerne ao resultado cirúrgico final. Na análise objetiva, o diâmetro horizontal areolar e a projeção mamilar dos CAPs reconstruídos demonstraram-se matematicamente semelhantes, com valores de P apresentando significância estatística (P > 0,05). CONCLUSÕES: O double opposing flap é, na atualidade, uma excelente estratégia para reconstrução do CAP, com metodização que propicia curta curva de aprendizado, garantindo mamilos centralizados, simétricos e com resultados duradouros