Incidence of Seromas and Infections Using Fenestrated versus Nonfenestrated Acellular Dermal Matrix in Breast Reconstructions

Vascularization of Human Acellular Dermal Matrices: A Comparative Study in a Nonhuman Primate Model

Four human acellular dermal matrices (hADMs) were characterized in a nonhuman primate abdominal wall repair model by evaluating host immune response, vascularization, and incorporation into host tissues. AlloDerm™ (electron beam-sterilized hADM [e-hADM]), AlloMax™ (gamma beam-sterilized hADM, freeze-dried [g-hADM-FD]), DermaMatrix™ (hADM, freeze-dried [hADM-FD]), and FlexHD™ (ethanol-treated hADM [EtOH-hADM]) were each implanted in an abdominal wall-bridging defect in nonhuman primates (n = 3 animals/time point, n = 36 animals). Immunohistochemical and histological assessments were conducted on biopsies from each hADM at 1-, 3-, and 6-months postimplantation to assess vascularization (hematoxylin and eosin [H&E], CD31, alpha smooth muscle actin [αSMA], collagen IV), inflammatory/immune response (H&E, CD3, CD20, CD68), and collagen turnover (H&E, matrix metalloproteinase-9 [MMP-9]). MMP-9 immunolabeling was similar among different hADMs at 1 month; however, hADM-FD and EtOH-hADM showed higher total mean MMP-9-immunopositive areas at approximately 16% compared with <1% for e-hADM and g-hADM at 6 months postimplantation. Cells that stained positively for CD68, CD3, and CD20 were generally higher for hADM-FD and EtOH-hADM compared with other hADMs. The mean CD31-immunopositive area, CD31 vessel density, CD31 vessel diameter, and collagen IV-immunopositive area increased over time. Among all the hADM types, e-hADM had the highest mean (±standard deviation [SD]) CD31-immunopositive area at 1.54% ± 1.01%, vessel density at 7.86 × 10-5 ± 3.96 × 10-5 vessels/µm2, and collagen IV-immunopositive area at 2.55% ± 0.73% 1-month postimplantation. The pattern of αSMA immunolabeling varied among the hADMs. Histology showed that overall inflammation was mild at 1 month. Overall fibroblast repopulation and collagen remodeling increased over time from 1 to 6 months postimplantation. Fibroblast infiltration was minimal to mild at 1 month, with e-hADM showing the highest mean (±SD) score at 2.00 ± 0.00 compared with other hADMs. Only hADM-FD was not completely replaced by neotissue formation at 6 months postimplantation. All hADMs promoted vascularization, cell infiltration, and incorporation into host tissue, which were associated with acute inflammation and immune responses, within a 6-month period. A trend toward relatively enhanced early vascularization in e-hADM compared with other hADMs was observed. Immunogenic responses among the hADMs in the present study showed a slight distinction toward more quiescent terminally sterilized hADMs (e-hADM, g-hADM-FD) versus aseptically processed hADMs (EtOH-hADM, hADM-FD).

The Ray Method: Aesthetic and Simple Technique for Prosthesis Coverage in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction

In prepectoral breast reconstruction, the acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is commonly used to envelop breast implants. Various wrapping methods have been proposed. We present a simple but aesthetic method (ie, the ray method) for wrapping in prepectoral breast reconstruction. Without any complicated design, we folded the four corners of one large ADM and sewed them together to completely envelop the implant. Then, the 6 o'clock corner of the ADM envelope was folded up and sutured to make a pentagonal shape. The other corners of the ADM envelope were quilted to determine the position and movement of the internal implant. Additional sutures were placed on the ADM envelope to separate the implant from the host tissue. The folded 6 o'clock corner was cut to a convex contour and had a diagonal gap to prevent the collection of fluid in the ADM envelope. Finally, the wrapped implant was inserted in the postmastectomy space, and the ADM envelope was spread widely to support soft tissue effectively. This simple design is straightforward for inexperienced surgeons and reduces operation time. The position and movement of the breast implant in the ADM envelope can be easily controlled by using quilted sutures. Subclavian depression and step-off deformities can be minimized by this wide-stretched ADM. By total coverage with a large ADM, the breast implant is separated from the surrounding tissue, and foreign body reactions are reduced. This method is reliable for maximizing the aesthetic advantages of prepectoral direct-to-implant breast reconstruction.

Impact of Tissue Expander Surface Texture on Two-Stage Breast Reconstruction Outcomes: A Combined Analysis

BACKGROUND

With ongoing investigations of the impact of device texturing on breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), studies have begun comparing complication profiles of tissue expanders. However, there is a paucity of timing and severity data of complications. The aim of this study was to provide a comparative survival analysis of postoperative complications between smooth (STEs) and textured tissue expanders (TTEs) in breast reconstruction.

METHODS

A single-institution experience with tissue expander breast reconstruction was reviewed for complications up to 1 year after second-stage reconstruction from 2014 to 2020. Demographics, comorbidities, operation-related variables, and complications were evaluated. Kaplan-Meier curves, Cox proportional hazard models, and a consensus-based ordinal logistic regression model were used to compare complication profiles.

RESULTS

Of 919 total patients, 600 (65.3%) received TTEs and 319 (34.7%) received STEs. There was increased risk of infection ( P < 0.0001), seroma ( P = 0.046), expander malposition ( P < 0.0001), and wound dehiscence ( P = 0.019) in STEs compared with TTEs. However, there was also a decreased risk of capsular contracture ( P = 0.005) in STEs compared with TTEs. Failure of breast reconstruction ( P < 0.001) and wound dehiscence ( P = 0.018) occurred significantly earlier in STEs compared with TTEs. Predictors for significantly higher severity complications included the following: smooth tissue expander use ( P = 0.007), shorter time to complication ( P < 0.0001), higher body mass index ( P = 0.005), smoking history ( P = 0.025), and nipple-sparing mastectomy ( P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in the timing and severity of complications contribute to the safety profiles of tissue expanders. STEs are associated with increased odds of higher severity and earlier complications. Therefore, tissue expander selection may depend on underlying risk factors and severity predictors.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Pre-pectoral Breast Reconstruction: Surgical and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Two-Stages vs Single-Stage Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Two-stages pre-pectoral breast reconstruction may confer advantages over direct to implant (DTI) and subpectoral reconstruction in selected patients who have no indication for autologous reconstruction. The primary endpoint of the study was to evaluate and compare the incidence of capsular contracture in the pre-pectoral two-stages technique versus the direct to implant technique. Complications related to the two surgical techniques and patient satisfaction were also evaluated.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 45 two stages and 45 Direct-to-implant, DTI patients was completed. Acellular dermal matrix was used in all patients. An evaluation of anthropometric and clinical parameters, surgical procedures and complications was conducted. Minimum follow-up was 12 months after placement of the definitive implant.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of capsular contracture in the two groups. Rippling occurred more in DTI reconstruction. In the two-stages reconstruction, lipofilling was applied more often and there was a higher incidence of seroma. Patient satisfaction extrapolated from the Breast Q questionnaire was better for patients submitted to two-stage implant-based breast reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

Dual-stage pre-pectoral reconstruction with acellular dermal matrix appears to be a good reconstructive solution in patients with relative contraindications for one-stage heterologous reconstruction with definitive prosthesis and no desire for autologous reconstruction.

The Effect of Early Cultures and Dual-port Expanders on Two-stage, Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: The 25/25 Study

Background

Two-stage tissue expander to implant surgery remains the predominant technique for breast reconstruction. Unfortunately, there is a high incidence of reconstruction failure which portends a financial and emotional burden. Most failures are related to postmastectomy skin flap necrosis and infection. Recently, a dual-port tissue expander was introduced to the market, and the authors hypothesize that early cultures from the peri-implant fluid will guide antibiotic treatment and decrease reconstruction failure.

Methods

This is a cohort study of 50 consecutive patients treated for breast cancer or genetic susceptibility via a two-stage, prepectoral technique. The first 25 patients (46 breasts) were treated with a variety of tissue expanders, and the subsequent 25 patients (47 breasts) received a dual-port expander. Routine cultures from the drain port were taken from the dual-port group at the second postoperative visit, and cultures were taken in the control group only when signs of infection were present. All other procedures and interventions were similar.

Results

Fifty patients, totaling 93 breasts, completed the study with a mean follow-up of 145 days. There were no statistically significant demographic or pathologic differences between groups. Fifteen tissue expanders were explanted in the control group and five in the dual-port cohort (32.6% versus 10.6%, P = 0.012). All bacteria in the control group failures were either methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis, whereas failures in the dual-port group varied.

Conclusion

Treatment of routine, early cultures from a dual-port expander led to a statistically significant decrease in tissue expander explantation.

When to Consider Prepectoral Implant Conversion After Subpectoral Implant Breast Reconstruction and How to Plan It

Many deformities occur after subpectoral implant-based breast reconstruction. Today, immediate prepectoral reconstruction with implants shows a significant increase in popularity because it has many advantages over subpectoral positioning: absence of muscle deficit and breast animation deformity, reduced implant dislocation, and less postoperative pain and easy recovery. Implant pocket conversion from the submuscular to prepectoral plane has become our preferred strategy for solving most problems related to the submuscular implant position. The authors performed a retrospective review (from June 2018 to December 2022) of patients who underwent prepectoral implant conversion for correction of animation deformity, dysfunctional chronic pain, or to ameliorate poor cosmetic results. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) was utilized in the first 7 cases; in the remaining 56 patients polyurethane-covered implants were placed. Resolution of animation deformity and chronic pain were evaluated, as were cosmetic results and any postoperative complications. Sixty-three patients (87 breasts) underwent prepectoral implant conversion with complete resolution of animation deformity and chronic pain as well as improved cosmetic results. Preventive lipofilling was done in 18 patients. Complication rate included 3 periprosthetic seromas in ADM group. All resolved after ultrasound-guided aspiration. Rippling was noted in 3 patients, and edge visibility was documented in 1 patient. There were no incidences of grade 3 or 4 capsular contracture. The prepectoral implant conversion improves functional and aesthetic results, reaching excellent outcomes. Preparation for this surgery with fat grafting is considered a complementary procedure that increases the indications for prepectoral implant conversion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Seroma After Breast Reconstruction With Tissue Expanders: Outcomes and Management

BACKGROUND

Seroma is a relatively common complication after breast reconstruction with tissue expanders. The main risk in the presence of seroma is development of periprosthetic infection, which can lead to implant loss. Our goals were to identify risk factors for seroma, and to describe our protocol for managing fluid accumulation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An IRB approved breast reconstruction database was reviewed to identify patients who underwent tissue expander reconstruction. Patient characteristics, details of surgery, outcomes and treatment were recorded.

RESULTS

Two hundred nineteen tissue expander reconstructions were performed in 138 patients. Twenty-eight reconstructions developed seroma (12.8%), and 75 were identified to have prolonged drains (34.2%). Seroma was more common in patients with lymph node surgery ( P = 0.043), delayed reconstruction ( P = 0.049), and prepectoral reconstruction ( P = 0.002). Seroma and/or prolonged drains were more commonly noted in patients with higher body mass index ( P = 0.044) and larger breast size ( P = 0.001). Aspiration was the most common intervention (85.7%), which was performed in the clinic utilizing the expander port site. There was no difference in infection or explantation rate between seroma and no-seroma patients ( P = 0.546 and 0.167), whereas patients with any fluid concern (seroma and/or prolonged drains) were more prone to developing infection and undergoing explantation ( P = 0.041 and P < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

We recommend that prolonged drain placement longer than 3 weeks should be avoided, and patients should be screened for fluid accumulation after drain removal. Serial aspiration via expander port site and continuation of expansion provide a safe and effective method to manage seromas to avoid infection and expander loss.

"Tear-Drop Appearance" Wrap: A Novel Implant Coverage Method for Creating Natural Contour in Prepectoral Prosthetic-Based Breast Reconstruction

Various implant wrapping methods with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) have been introduced, but most focus on random trimming and suturing aimed to maximize implant coverage. Here we present our clinical experience using a “tear-drop appearance” wrapping method to achieve natural contours through upper pole volume replacement. We retrospectively reviewed the data of 56 consecutive cases of prepectoral prosthetic-based breast reconstruction (PPBR) using this wrapping method following nipple-sparing mastectomy between March 2020 and June 2021. The “tear-drop appearance” wrapping design creates an anatomical tear-drop–shaped pocket to encourage lower pole fullness and create a natural contour through upper pole volume replacement by ADM. Patients’ baseline characteristics, operative data, and complications were analyzed. Aesthetic outcomes were measured using the BREAST-Q and Aesthetic Item Scale (AIS). A successful reconstruction was achieved without major complications and using a single ADM sheet. Four types and three sizes of ADMs were used. The mean resected breast tissue weight was 274.3 g, while the mean implant volume was 230.0 cc. The average BREAST-Q and AIS scores were 4.6 ± 0.8 and 4.5 ± 0.7, respectively. Owing to its simplicity, reproducibility, and effectivity, this method is an excellent implant coverage option that achieves a natural contour in PPBR.

Immunomodulation of Acellular Dermal Matrix Through Interleukin 4 Enhances Vascular Infiltration

BACKGROUND

Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) supported implant-based reconstruction remains the most commonly performed mode of reconstruction after breast cancer. Acellular dermal matrix clinical usage has reported benefits but requires rapid and efficient vascular and cellular incorporation into the recipient to have the best outcomes. Orderly transition from M1 to M2 macrophage phenotypic profile, coordinated in part by interleukin 4 (IL-4), is an important component of vascular stabilization and remodeling. Using the ADM substrate as a delivery device for immunomodulation of macrophage phenotype holds the potential to improve integration.

METHODS

Interleukin 4 was adsorbed onto ADM samples and drug elution curves were measured. Next, experimental groups of 8 C57BL/6 mice had 5-mm ADM discs surgically placed in a dorsal window chamber with a vascularized skin flap on one side and a plastic cover slip on the other in a model of implant-based breast reconstruction. Group 1 consisted of IL-4 (5 μg) adsorbed into the ADM preoperatively and group 2 consisted of an untreated ADM control. Serial gross examinations were performed with histology at day 21 for markers of vascularization, mesenchymal cell infiltration, and macrophage lineage.

RESULTS

Drug elution curves showed sustained IL-4 release for 10 days after adsorption. Serial gross examination showed similar rates of superficial vascular investment of the ADM beginning at the periphery by day 14 and increasing through day 21. Interleukin-4 treatment led to significantly increased CD31 staining of vascular endothelial cells within the ADM over the control group (P < 0.05) at 21 days. Although vimentin staining did not indicate a significant increase in fibroblasts overall, IL-4 did result in a significant increase in expression of α-smooth muscle actin. The expression of macrophage phenotype markers Arginase1 and iNOS present within the ADM were not significantly affected by IL-4 treatment at the day 21 time point.

CONCLUSIONS

Acellular dermal matrix has the potential to be used for immunomodulatory cytokine delivery during the timeframe of healing. Using implanted ADM as a delivery vehicle to drive IL-4 mediated angiogenesis and vascular remodeling significantly enhanced vascularity within the ADM substrate.

Meshed Acellular Dermal Matrix for Two-Staged Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: An Institutional Experience

The introduction of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to breast reconstruction has allowed surgeons to reexplore the prepectoral implant placement technique in postmastectomy breast reconstruction. Our institution adopted a novel approach using meshed ADM to lessen the financial burden of increased ADM utilization with the prepectoral breast reconstruction. This is a retrospective, single-center review of two-stage prepectoral breast reconstruction using meshed human-derived ADM for anterior prosthesis coverage. Patient demographics, oncologic data, perioperative characteristics, and complications were examined and reported as means with standard deviations. Cost-saving with the meshed technique was evaluated. Forty-eight patients (72 breasts) with a mean age of 48.5 ± 15.0 years (range 26–70 years) were included in the study. The mean follow-up time was 13.2 ± 4.4 months (range 4.1–25.8 months). Nineteen breasts (24.6%) experienced complications, with seromas being the most common complication (12.5%, n  = 9). Expander removal and reoperation occurred at a rate of 8.3 and 9.7%, respectively. The average time to drain removal was 18.8 ± 6.6 days (range 8–32 days). Meshed ADM provided an average cost savings of $6,601 for unilateral and $13,202 for bilateral reconstructions. Our study found that human-derived meshed ADM can be safely used in two-staged prepectoral tissue expander-based breast reconstruction and can result in significant cost savings.

Clinical Outcomes of Acellular Dermal Matrix (SimpliDerm and AlloDerm Ready-to-Use) in Immediate Breast Reconstruction

Background

The use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) for post-mastectomy reconstruction is considered by many surgeons to be an accepted component of surgical technique. Early clinical experience is described for SimpliDerm® - a novel human ADM (Aziyo Biologics, Silver Spring, USA), and AlloDerm® Ready-To-Use (RTU) - an established ADM (Allergan Medical, Irvine, USA).

Methods

Records were retrospectively reviewed from four sites between 2016 and 2021 of patients who underwent immediate, two-stage reconstruction with either SimpliDerm (n=38) or AlloDerm RTU (n=69) after mastectomy and were followed out to exchange to permanent implant(s), tissue expander(s) explant, or death.

Results

Immediate breast reconstruction with tissue expanders and ADM was performed on 107 patients (181 breasts). Overall mean patient age was 51.4 ± 12.4 years, and mean BMI was 28.0 ± 5.8 kg/m². Significantly more patients in the SimpliDerm group were of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity (34.2% vs. 7.2%; P<.001). Reconstructions were predominantly prepectoral (82.3%). A total of 35 adverse events (AEs) occurred in 27 (25.2%) patients, with no difference in AE type, classification, or rates between ADM groups. No AEs were considered related to either ADM. The observed AE profiles and rates are similar to those published for other ADMs in immediate breast reconstruction.

Conclusions

There continues to be a need for additional clinically equivalent ADMs to provide physicians with more availability and options for their practice. This retrospective, multisite study describes comparable clinical outcomes with SimpliDerm and AlloDerm RTU through a median of 133.5 days (~four months) following immediate two-stage breast reconstruction.

In Situ Fenestration: A Simple Technique for Fenestration of Acellular Dermal Matrix During Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Acellular Dermal Matrices (ADMs) were first described for use in breast surgery in 2001, and in 2005 it was first described to be used in breast reconstruction. However, ADMs are also associated with increased postoperative complications. Fenestration of the ADM may reduce the incidence of postoperative complications.

METHODS

We fenestrate the ADM in-situ, after attaching it to the lower pole of the planned pocket using absorbable sutures.

CONCLUSIONS

using this technique enables to achieve a fan-shaped ADM mesh within less than a minute; Demonstrating a fast, easy and most importantly sterile method to fenestrate the ADM.

Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses of Donor Site Morbidity Following a Graft of the Acellular Dermal Matrix Versus Primary Fascial Repair After ALT Flap Harvesting

Background

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is one of the most useful flaps in reconstruction because of its reliability, large skin flap territory, and versatility. The relatively small number of side effects is a common reason for preferring this flap. Primary repair is usually performed at the donor site closure; however, this requires substantial tension and causes many donor site morbidities, including pain. We attempted to use acellular dermal matrix graft to overcome these problems.

Methods

We analyzed a total of 41 cases (41 flaps) in this study. Among these flaps, we conducted donor fascia suture with artificial dermis in 20 cases (study group) and primary fascial suture in 21cases (control group). Post-operative ambulation recovery times, pain scores, drainage removals, and wound problems of the donor site were recorded.

Results

There were no serious complications, including infection, at the donor sites of all 41 cases. Of 20 cases using the acellular dermal matrix, seroma occurred in 2 cases and partial skin necrosis occurred in 2 cases. In 1 case of skin necrosis, the acellular dermal matrix was removed. However, in comparison to the control group, the group using the artificial dermis recovered ambulatory ability 3.9 days earlier and had a 1.8-point lower visual analogue scale score 5 days post-operatively.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that, if used selectively, the acellular dermal matrix may play an effective role in donor site closure in cases with procedures involving the ALT flap.

Acellular Dermal Matrix-Associated Complications in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Comparing Two Human Tissues

BACKGROUND

Implant-based breast reconstruction accounts for the vast majority of breast reconstruction procedures and is commonly performed with human acellular dermal matrix. There is no consensus as to the optimal human acellular dermal matrix preparation, and high-quality evidence concerning comparative effectiveness is lacking. This study is the first prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial to compare human acellular dermal matrix-related complications of the two most commonly used human acellular dermal matrices in implant-based breast reconstruction. The authors hypothesize that there will be no difference in infection, seroma, and reconstructive failure between FlexHD Pliable and AlloDerm RTU.

METHODS

The authors conducted a Level 1 prospective, randomized, controlled, multicenter clinical trial to assess complications associated with the use of two human acellular dermal matrices in immediate postmastectomy implant-based breast reconstruction across seven clinical sites. Group A patients received FlexHD Pliable (113 patients with 187 breast reconstructions), and group B patients received AlloDerm RTU (117 patients with 197 breast reconstructions).

RESULTS

There was no significant difference with respect to patient demographics, indications, comorbidities, and reconstruction approach between groups. Mean follow-up time was 10.7 ± 3.2 months. There was no statistical difference in the overall matrix-related complications between groups A and B (4.3 percent versus 7.1 percent, p = 0.233). Obesity (OR, 1.14; 95 percent CI, 1.05 to 1.24; p = 0.001) and prepectoral placement of matrix (OR, 4.53; 95 percent CI, 1.82 to 11.3; p = 0.001) were independently associated with greater risks of overall matrix-related complications.

CONCLUSION

This work supports the use of human acellular dermal matrices in implant-based breast reconstruction and demonstrates no significant difference in matrix-related complication rates between FlexHD Pliable and AlloDerm RTU.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, I.

Comparison of porcine and human acellular dermal matrix outcomes in wound healing: a deep dive into the evidence

Acellular dermal matrices (ADM) are a novel graft. The goal of this systematic review is to evaluate the evidence behind differences in human and porcine ADM, irrelevant of manufacturing method, and to determine if there is enough of an evidence base to change clinical practice. An extensive literature search was performed through MEDLINE and Embase with search terms defining a population, intervention and outcome. Title and abstract exclusion were performed with other exclusion criteria. In 191 articles were found after exclusion of duplicates, with only 29 remaining following exclusions. Ten studies were found to have level I and II evidence (I=3, II=8), of which two were histopathological, one was an animal model, one was a systematic review, and six were clinical. The remaining studies were reviewed and considered for discussion, but did not hold high enough standards for medical evidence. Strong clinical evidence already exists for the use of human ADM, but questions of access, cost, and ethics require consideration of a xenograft. Histopathologically, evidence suggests minimal long-term differences between human and porcine ADM, although there is a short acute immune response with porcine ADM. Clinically, there is limited difference in outcomes, with a small range in effect of different ADM preparations. Considering the effectiveness of ADM in wound healing, more high-level research with appropriate statistical analysis to facilitate a future meta-analysis is recommended to justify a transition from human to porcine ADM.

A Sustainable Approach to Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction Using Meshed Acellular Dermal Matrix

Background:

Prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction provides an alternative to submuscular reconstruction, but the increased acellular dermal matrix (ADM) required has the potential to lead to increased costs and decreased supply of this limited-resource material. We present a method for prepectoral reconstruction utilizing skin-graft meshing techniques to increase the surface area of usable ADM.

Methods:

Forty-four patients underwent this technique from February 2019 to February 2020. Patient characteristics, operative details, and outcomes, including complications and patient satisfaction utilizing the BREAST-Q, were analyzed. Cost analysis relative to projected cost of nonmeshed techniques was performed.

Results:

There were 20 unilateral and 24 bilateral procedures, for a total of 68 breast reconstructions. Mean age was 45.9 years (32–71). Mean implant volume was 485 cm³ (265–800), and one sheet of ADM was used for each breast with an average surface area of 161 cm². Median follow-up was 350 days (212–576). Minor complications included an infection treated with oral antibiotics. Major complications included one axillary hematoma and one delayed implant loss. One patient underwent revision for asymmetry. Mean BREAST-Q score was 47.4/60. Cost ranged from $4113 to 5025 per breast, compared with the projected $9125–18250 per breast for other techniques in the literature.

Conclusions:

In contrast to previously described uses of ADM in prepectoral reconstruction, meshing maximizes resource utilization by expanding the coverage of a single sheet. Early findings demonstrate minimal complications and high patient satisfaction, suggesting the approach has potential to provide the benefits of prepectoral reconstruction while responsibly preserving product availability and tempering healthcare costs.

Single-Unit technique for the use of acellular dermal matrix in immediate expander-based breast reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The use of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) in immediate two-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction following mastectomy is now a common practice. The procedure confers several compelling benefits, including coverage of the inferior pole, enhanced definition of the inframammary fold, and reduction of capsular contracture. However, operative techniques used to create the ADM inferolateral sling can be unwieldy in practice, typically involving the placement of the ADM followed by positioning and anchoring of the prosthetic expander. At best, this may be a relatively minor nuisance, but may potentially influence outcomes, including discrepancies in symmetry.

METHODS

We present a novel modification that aims to streamline this procedure. Perforations are made through the allograft, through which the tissue expander tabs are brought through and sutured together ex vivo to allow the ADM and expander to be placed into the inframammary fold position as a single unit. A retrospective chart review was then performed of patients who underwent breast reconstruction utilizing this technique between July 2015 and December 2018. Outcomes including postsurgical complications such as infection, malposition, and reoperation were analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients met the inclusion criteria, corresponding to 108 breasts. The average follow-up was 18 months. The overall complication rate was 29.6% of breasts. The most commonly observed complications were mastectomy skin necrosis (9.3%) and major infection (8.3%). There was a 7.4% rate of malposition.

CONCLUSIONS

This simple but effective modification in ADM technique is associated with a comparable complication rate and allows for greater ease and consistency in tissue expander placement.

Direct-to-Implant, Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: A Single-Surgeon Experience with 201 Consecutive Patients

BACKGROUND

The resurgence of prepectoral breast reconstruction has brought strict patient inclusion and exclusion criteria by numerous authors. This article provides an overview of a single surgeon's experience with 201 patients, 313 breasts using immediate, direct-to-implant prepectoral breast reconstruction. The article compares surgical outcomes of different patient cohorts to elucidate risk factors that may predispose patients toward developing complications.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed, identifying all patients who underwent prepectoral, direct-to-implant breast reconstruction from June of 2016 to June of 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 201 patients representing 313 breasts were included. A midlateral incision was used in 157 breasts (50.2 percent), followed by a skin-reducing, Wise-pattern in 90 breasts (28.8 percent). Acellular dermal matrix was used in 243 breasts (77.6 percent), free nipple grafts were used in 39 breasts (12.5 percent), and postmastectomy radiation therapy was used in 58 breasts (18.5 percent). Complications requiring operative intervention occurred in 24 breasts (7.7 percent), and minor complications occurred in 23 breasts (7.3 percent). There were no significant differences in complication rates for (1) acellular dermal matrix use versus non-acellular dermal matrix use, (2) Wise-pattern versus other incision, or (3) postmastectomy radiotherapy (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This represents the largest single-surgeon, direct-to-implant prepectoral cohort in the literature. Surgical complications did not differ with acellular dermal matrix use, incision selection, and the use of postmastectomy radiation therapy. There may be an association between acellular dermal matrix use and major complications and radiotherapy with minor complications.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Decreased Length of Postoperative Drain Use, Parenteral Opioids, Length of Stay, and Complication Rates in Patients Receiving Meshed versus Unmeshed Acellular Dermal Matrix in 194 Submuscular Tissue Expander-Based Breast Reconstructions: A Single-Surgeon Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Studies have cited possible complications and increased fluid accumulation in implant-based breast reconstruction using acellular dermal matrix. The authors propose a novel approach, manually meshing acellular dermal matrix using a skin graft mesher before use in expander-based breast reconstruction. The authors investigated postoperative drain time, complication rates, pain, and length of hospital stay in meshed versus unmeshed acellular dermal matrix cohorts.

METHODS

One hundred fourteen patients and 194 reconstructed breasts were included overall. Of these, 99 patients were included in the pain and postoperative length of hospital stay analysis. Independent t test and chi-square analyses were used for bivariate comparisons. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to further delineate impact of meshing acellular dermal matrix on drain time, postoperative parenteral narcotic requirements, and length of stay between the two cohorts.

RESULTS

The meshed acellular dermal matrix cohort had lower overall complication rates compared with the unmeshed cohort. Multiple linear regression analyses showed meshing the acellular dermal matrix alone decreased drain time by 7.3 days, and decreased postoperative parenteral narcotic requirements by 77 percent (20 mg morphine). Furthermore, it was the only significant predictor for a decrease in length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Meshing acellular dermal matrix significantly decreased the time needed for postoperative drains. Statistical analysis showed significantly decreased overall and minor complication rates in the meshed cohort. Meshing significantly decreased parenteral narcotic requirements and, importantly, also decreased length of stay. All of these factors have important implications regarding cost and quality of care in expander-based breast reconstruction.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Complications after Perforated versus Nonperforated Acellular Dermal Matrix Use in Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction: A Propensity Score Analysis

Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) were first incorporated into direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction by the senior author in 2001 and have since become foundational to implant-based reconstruction. ADM composition has evolved recently and now includes perforated types, which some speculate decrease the likelihood of seroma. The authors performed a retrospective review of perforated (P-ADM) and nonperforated (NP-ADM) ADM-assisted direct-to-implant breast reconstruction patients to evaluate differences in complication rates.

Drain secretion and seroma formation after immediate breast reconstruction with a biological and a synthetic mesh, respectively: A randomized controlled study

The aim of this study was to compare seroma production in breast reconstruction with a biological mesh with that of a synthetic mesh, in the same patient. The patients were randomized to biological mesh in one breast and synthetical in the other. Twenty-four breasts were included. The total drain production and the daily drain production were similar in the two groups. After drain removal, there were more seroma aspirations in the biological group. During the exchange to a permanent implant, there was significantly more seroma in the biological group. Seroma formation is different in synthetic and biological meshes.

Clinical experience with Surgimend in breast reconstruction: an overview

In the field of breast reconstruction, products and techniques are continuing to evolve to ensure good clinical and quality outcomes. This article reviews the published literature regarding the use of fetal bovine-derived acellular dermal matrix (SurgiMend, SurgiMend PRS and SurgiMend PRS meshed), focusing on safety, clinical outcomes and surgical techniques.

The Superiorly Based Partial Rectus Abdominis and External Oblique Flap for Lower Pole Coverage in Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction: A Prospective Cohort Study of 47 Consecutive Flaps

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated health related quality of life and morbidity in patients who had a superiorly based partial rectus abdominis and external oblique (SPREO) flap for lower pole coverage as a component of 2-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of patients undergoing immediate and delayed 2-stage breast reconstruction including a SPREO flap for lower pole coverage was conducted. The BREAST-Q and a study-specific questionnaire were used to determine outcomes after this procedure. BREAST-Q questionnaires were completed preoperatively and postoperatively and compared with normative values.

RESULTS

BREAST-Q questionnaires were completed by 27 women. The mean patient age was 54.3 ± 9.6 years. Mean BREAST-Q scores improved significantly between preoperative and postoperative time points in Satisfaction with Breasts (preoperative 43.2 ± 26.9, postoperative 66.2 ± 19.5, P = 0.001) and Psychosocial Wellbeing (preoperative 59.4 ± 16.4 postoperative 75.5 ± 19.4, P = 0.002). Mean scores were not significantly different in the domains Physical Wellbeing Chest, Physical Wellbeing Abdomen and Sexual Wellbeing. Postoperative BREAST-Q scores were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than previously published normative scores in Satisfaction with Breasts.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reports the use of the SPREO flap for lower pole coverage in 2-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction and demonstrates that it may be a useful addition to the existing repertoire of flaps used in breast reconstruction.

Histopathological Study of Meshed Versus Solid Sheet Acellular Dermal Matrices in a Porcine Model

BACKGROUND

Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) are commonly used to support implant-based breast reconstruction. However, there is little comparative data on the incorporation process of different ADMs, and the value of meshing or fenestration versus solid sheet has not been established, although early clinical data suggest seroma rates may be reduced. This was a preclinical assessment of the incorporation process at optimal conditions in a pig model.

METHODS

SurgiMend and AlloDerm matrices were implanted in subcutaneous pockets on the backs of 15-week-old female pigs. Half of the samples were meshed 1:2.5; the remainder was grafted as a fenestrated (SurgiMend) or solid sheet (AlloDerm). Tissues were harvested at 3 months. Histological slides were prepared for hematoxylin and eosin staining, and Masson trichrome and immunostaining with anticollagen type I fluorescein isothiocyanate stain. Histological parameters (inflammation, giant cell reaction, neovascularization, fibroplasias, and scar tissue formation) were graded blindly on a scale of 0 (no reaction) to 3 (severe reaction).

RESULTS

All explanted ADMs (SurgiMend, n = 23; AlloDerm, n = 20) were firmly incorporated within the host tissue. SurgiMend showed more fibroplasia (P = 0.029) compared with AlloDerm in meshed or solid sheet form. Meshed ADMs showed a trend toward increased inflammation (P = 0.074) and giant cell reaction (P = 0.053) compared with solid sheet/fenestrated ADM.

CONCLUSIONS

Meshing ADM may allow cells to populate matrices more rapidly, promoting integration compared with solid sheet ADMs. This study sets the histological basis for further clinical investigations, with the aim of demonstrating lower complication rates (and particularly reduced seroma formation) with meshed ADMs.

Direct to implant breast reconstruction: visualized technique

Over the past 19 years, direct to implant (DTI) breast reconstruction has been found to decrease medical system cost, improve psychosocial morbidity, and optimize cosmetic outcomes. Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) have further improved reconstructive outcomes, as the tissue incorporates with new angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. ADMs have been used by the senior author since 2000, and have since become a cornerstone of implant-based reconstruction. The senior author began using contoured perforated ready to use ADM in 2015 and is currently studying the effect of this change on breast reconstruction outcomes. This article details the senior author's technique in performing DTI breast reconstruction and highlights the operative components necessary for success.

A retrospective review of breast reconstruction outcomes comparing AlloDerm and DermaCELL

Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has become an accepted and advantageous adjunct to alloplastic breast reconstruction. The increase in demand has led to an upsurge of dermal-based products, both human and animal derived. There are few direct ADM comparative studies, but it is unclear whether there are any differences in complication rates. Our primary objective was to determine whether there is a difference in outcomes between AlloDerm and DermACELL in immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction.

A retrospective chart review of those who underwent immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction from January to December 2016 was performed. This encompassed 64 consecutive patients (95 breasts) with tissue expander or direct-to-implant reconstruction and either AlloDerm or DermACELL ADM. Demographics, particulars of the surgery, additional treatments and complications were all recorded. Differences in seroma, haematoma and infection rates, as well as more serious complications including implant replacement, capsular contracture and failure, were all reviewed.

The groups were comparable in terms of age, BMI and relevant comorbidities. Mastectomy weight and resulting implant volume were higher in the DermACELL group, with volume reaching statistical significance (p = 0.001). With an average follow-up of 18 months, there was no difference in capsular contraction or implant replacement. However, in those who developed capsular contracture in the DermACELL group, more breasts had no history of radiation, which was significant (p = 0.042). Overall, there were no significant differences in complication rates of seroma, haematoma, mastectomy flap necrosis and infection.

Trans-Vertical Mastectomy With Immediate Implant-Based Reconstruction: A Retrospective, Observational Study

Background

In women with large and ptotic breasts who require a mastectomy and immediate, implant-based reconstruction, long flaps pose a high risk for flap ischemia and necrosis. A new trans-vertical incision for skin-reducing mastectomy is described, which reduces the skin envelope and lifts the breast.

Objectives

The authors sought to describe the new mastectomy access incision and assess its efficacy and safety when followed by immediate implant-based reconstruction.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included 70 consecutive patients (101 breasts) with large and ptotic breasts who underwent a unilateral (n = 39; 55.7%) or bilateral (n = 31; 44.3%), skin-reducing mastectomy utilizing the trans-vertical approach for either breast cancer or risk reduction. All received immediate one- (n = 86; 85.5%) or two-stage (n = 15; 14.5%), implant-based reconstruction utilizing acellular dermal matrix.

Results

Mean age was 50.1 years and mean body mass index was 25.6 kg/m². After a median follow-up of 4.9 years, the number of breasts with minor and major complications was 21 (20.8%) and 26 (25.7%), respectively. The most common major complications were skin-flap necrosis (n = 12; 11.9%) and infection (n = 8; 7.9%). All occurred within 3 months postsurgically. There were 7 cases of capsular contracture (6.9%) and 5 reconstruction failures (5.0%). Higher body mass index (P < 0.01) and breast weight (P < 0.05) were associated with increased complication rates. According to BREAST-Q, 55/64 patients (85.9%) were somewhat or very satisfied with the aesthetic outcome.

Conclusions

The trans-vertical approach is an effective, reproducible, and safe alternative to conventional skin-reducing mastectomy, with favorable aesthetic outcomes, in patients with large and ptotic breasts.

Level of Evidence: 4

Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction and Red Breast Syndrome: Demystification and a Review of the Literature

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Red breast syndrome (RBS) represents an inflammatory condition that rarely occurs in the setting of acellular dermal matrix use after prosthetic reconstruction. It is characterized by erythema or rubor that occurs directly over the ADM, and its appearance resembles that of a cellulitis. There have been many explanations with regard to etiology, but none have addressed the physiologic alterations leading to the onset and resolution of RBS. RBS is postulated to be the result of lymphatic disruption and is self-limiting. Resolution is postulated to be the result of angiolymphatic regeneration and the re-establishment of lymphatic flow within the mastectomy skin flap and the ADM, resulting in the clearance of inflammatory mediators responsible for the localized erythema.

Therapeutic strategies for skin regeneration based on biomedical substitutes

Regenerative medicine and tissue engineering (TE) have experienced significant advances in the development of in vitro engineered skin substitutes, either for replacement of lost tissue in skin injuries or for the generation of in vitro human skin models to research. However, currently available skin substitutes present different limitations such as expensive costs, abnormal skin microstructure and engraftment failure. Given these limitations, new technologies, based on advanced therapies and regenerative medicine, have been applied to develop skin substitutes with several pharmaceutical applications that include injectable cell suspensions, cell-spray devices, sheets or 3Dscaffolds for skin tissue regeneration and others. Clinical practice for skin injuries has evolved to incorporate these innovative applications to facilitate wound healing, improve the barrier function of the skin, prevent infections, manage pain and even to ameliorate long-term aesthetic results. In this article, we review current commercially available skin substitutes for clinical use, as well as the latest advances in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications used to design advanced therapies and medical products for wound healing and skin regeneration. We highlight the current progress in clinical trials for wound healing as well as the new technologies that are being developed and hold the potential to generate skin substitutes such as 3D bioprinting-based strategies.

Breast Reconstruction Actualized in Nipple-sparing Mastectomy and Direct-to-implant, Prepectoral Polyurethane Positioning: Early Experience and Preliminary Results

BACKGROUND

Implant-based breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy has been the most common breast reconstruction procedure performed, for both breast cancer treatment and prophylactically. Subpectoral implant placement with partial detachment of the pectoralis major muscle has been the procedure of choice for staged reconstruction and direct-to-implantation. Prepectoral implant placement has recently increased in popularity among plastic surgeons owing to the high rates of animation deformity, loss of muscle function, and chronic pain observed with submuscular implant placement. Acellular dermal matrices or synthetic meshes have been used for implant coverage and support to avoid capsular contracture and implant visibility. In the present study, we have introduced breast reconstruction actualized in nipple-sparing mastectomy and direct-to-implant with prepectoral polyurethane positioning (BRAND4P).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 34 nipple-sparing mastectomies and immediate direct-to-implant breast reconstructions with prepectoral polyurethane-coated implant placement were performed in 21 patients (13 bilateral and 8 unilateral). The implant was placed subcutaneously in the exact place of the excised breast parenchyma with no further coverage.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 4 months, no major complications had been observed. No patient presented with animation deformity or grade III-IV capsular contracture. Patient satisfaction, assessed using the BREAST-Q, was excellent.

CONCLUSIONS

The BRAND4P method represents a novel prepectoral approach and a feasible alternative to subpectoral implant placement among the available implant-based breast reconstruction techniques.

The "Butterfly" Wrap: A Simplified Technique for Consistent Prosthesis Coverage in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction

Background:

Here, we describe our simple, systematic, reproducible, and effective method for prosthesis coverage in prepectoral breast reconstruction.

Methods:

Our Butterfly Wrap is a simple technique, which provides prosthesis coverage with a single sheet of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in a reproducible and elegant manner. The wrap design creates an anatomic tear-shaped pocket to guide expansion and encourage lower pole fullness, without ADM folding or bunching for optimal incorporation and minimal overlap. Further, it minimizes waste, allowing for smaller sheets of ADM to be used per breast, and can easily be performed in minimal time on the back table while the mastectomies are being performed, as a means of minimizing cost.

Results:

Our technique can be applied to effectively cover all shapes and sizes of expanders and implants, both teardrop and round. As a result, the surgeon need only focus on the critical nuances of prosthesis-based prepectoral breast reconstruction, without the anxiety of how to wrap the prosthesis and what size of ADM to use.

Conclusions:

The Butterfly Wrap is a simple, systematic, reproducible, and effective method for prosthesis coverage in prepectoral reconstruction.

A Meta-analysis of Studies Comparing Outcomes of Diverse Acellular Dermal Matrices for Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The current diversity of the available acellular dermal matrix (ADM) materials for implant-based breast reconstruction raises the issue of whether there are any differences in postoperative outcomes according to the kind of ADM used. The present meta-analysis aimed to investigate whether choice of ADM products can affect outcomes.

METHODS

Studies that used multiple kinds of ADM products for implant-based breast reconstruction and compared outcomes between them were searched. Outcomes of interest were rates of postoperative complications: infection, seroma, mastectomy flap necrosis, reconstruction failure, and overall complications.

RESULTS

A total of 17 studies met the selection criteria. There was only 1 randomized controlled trial, and the other 16 studies had retrospective designs. Comparison of FlexHD, DermaMatrix, and ready-to-use AlloDerm with freeze-dried AlloDerm was conducted in multiple studies and could be meta-analyzed, in which 12 studies participated. In the meta-analysis comparing FlexHD and freeze-dried AlloDerm, using the results of 6 studies, both products showed similar pooled risks for all kinds of complications. When comparing DermaMatrix and freeze-dried AlloDerm with the results from 4 studies, there were also no differences between the pooled risks of complications of the two. Similarly, the meta-analysis of 4 studies comparing ready-to-use and freeze-dried AlloDerm demonstrated that the pooled risks for the complications did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis demonstrates that the 3 recently invented, human cadaveric skin-based products of FlexHD, DermaMatrix, and ready-to-use AlloDerm have similar risks of complications compared with those of freeze-dried AlloDerm, which has been used for longer. However, as most studies had low levels of evidence, further investigations are needed.

Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction with Fenestrated Acellular Dermal Matrix: A Novel Design

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Fenestrated acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has improved patient outcomes in both direct-to-implant and 2-stage tissue expander/implant breast reconstruction. This technical alteration utilizes optimal fenestration overlap to enhance the breast reconstruction experience. We present a novel, surgeon-designed shaped fenestrated ADM, placed in the recently repopularized prepectoral pocket for anterior coverage of implants in direct-to-implant and 2-stage breast reconstruction. A retrospective review of 10 patients (18 breasts) who underwent direct-to-implant or 2-stage breast reconstruction utilizing fenestrated shaped ADM in the prepectoral plane at a major academic institution in 2016 was conducted. Sixteen breasts (88.9%) underwent direct-to-implant reconstruction, and 2 breasts (11.1%) received tissue expanders. All reconstructions were performed using FlexHD Pliable ADM with surgeon-designed shape and fenestrations. The average implant size was 544.4 cc (±137.2 cc). The average intraoperative tissue expander fill volume measured 450 cc (90% of tissue expander size). The single expander case utilized 1 office fill (day 21) for full expansion. Major complications requiring reoperation within 90 days postoperatively were observed in 22.2% (4 breasts) of reconstructions. Three breasts (16.7%) due to partial mastectomy flap necrosis, 1 breast (5.5%) explantation due to infection. There was no seroma or capsular contracture. Prepectoral reconstruction with shaped fenestrated ADM is safe with high intraoperative fill volumes and facilitates more direct-to-implant reconstructions. Patients undergo fewer postoperative expansions, experience less time to full expansion, and subjectively report less pain. Patients benefit from improved cosmetic outcomes with better shape and no functional loss or animation deformity.

A New Human-Derived Acellular Dermal Matrix for Breast Reconstruction Available for the European Market: Preliminary Results

INTRODUCTION

The introduction of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) contributed to the growing diffusion of direct-to-implant breast reconstruction (DTI-BR) following mastectomy for breast cancer. According to specific legislations, European specialists could not benefit from the use of human-derived ADMs, even though most evidence in the literature are available for this kind of device, showed optimal outcomes in breast reconstruction. The Skin Bank of the Bufalini Hospital (Cesena, Italy) obtained in 2009 the approval for the production and distribution of a new human cadaver-donor-derived ADM (named with the Italian acronym, MODA, for matrice omologa dermica acellulata) from the Italian National Transplant Center and National Health Institute. We report preliminary results of MODA application in direct-to-implant breast reconstruction following nipple-areola complex (NAC)-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively enrolled all women undergoing NAC-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer and DTI-BR in our breast surgical unit from June 2015 to January 2017. We enrolled a selected population without previous chest wall irradiation, not being heavy tobacco smokers or diabetic, with a BMI < 30 kg/m² and requiring less than 550 cc silicone implants. We assessed short-term outcomes, defined as postoperative complications presenting in the first 30 postoperative days and long-term outcomes at 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

From June 2015 to January 2017, we treated 56 breasts. At a mean follow-up of 14 months, we observed only two minor complications described as limited wound dehiscences, conservatively managed with complete resolution without implant exposure or re-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary results show very good performance of MODA in direct-to-implant breast reconstruction following NAC-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer treatment. This is particularly relevant for the European market, where no other human-derived devices are available for breast reconstruction due to regulatory restrictions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Evaluation of Modifications to Tissue-Expander Breast Reconstruction, a Quality Improvement Assessment Within a Private Practice

BACKGROUND

As technology advances, surgical practice evolves over time. The author assesses a new approach to implant-based breast reconstruction and the impact of two changes implemented over several years.

METHODS

A series of tissue-expander reconstructions performed early in the author's experience were retrospectively compared with a similar number of cases prospectively performed. Demographics, perioperative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients (87 breasts) were analyzed, 29 treated earlier with one of the early acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) available and 24 current cases using a no-touch operative approach and pliable, perforated ADM. Demographics and perioperative characteristics between the cohorts were comparable. Mean age was 47.6 years, body mass index (BMI) of 25.8 and 18.9% had current or former nicotine use. Immediate reconstruction was performed in 75 (86.2%) breasts. Drains remained in situ 16 ± 8.9 days, with a significantly lower number of days required in latter patients. At a mean follow-up of 9.6 months, complications included early capsular thickening in 7 (13.2%) patients requiring capsulectomy at the second stage exchange surgery, prosthetic (expander) removal in 3 (3.4%) breasts, significant infection requiring intervention in 3 (5.7%) patients, seroma in 3 (5.7%) patients, 2 (3.8%) cases of wound dehiscence, and 1 (1.9%) case of flap necrosis and hematoma. Incomplete ADM incorporation was observed in 9 (10.3%) breasts. Three reconstructive failures occurred in the early cohort. Patients in the later cohort reported significantly improved BREAST-Q scores (P < 0.005) postoperatively with a high level of satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Using a no-touch technique and an ADM designed with functional characteristics advantageous to breast reconstructive surgery appears to have improved patient outcomes.

Benefits and risks with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) and mesh support in immediate breast reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

In modern implant-based immediate breast reconstruction, it has become common to use biological acellular dermal and synthetic matrices in combination with a tissue expander or an implant. The aim of this systematic review was to examine differences in recurrence of cancer, impact on oncological treatment, health related quality of life, complications and aesthetic outcome between matrix and no matrix in immediate breast reconstruction. Systematic searches, data extraction and assessment of methodological quality were performed according to predetermined criteria. Fifty-one studies were eligible and included in the review. The certainty of evidence for overall complication rate and implant loss is low (GRADE ⊕⊕□ □). The certainty of evidence for delay of adjuvant treatment, implant loss, infection, capsular contraction and aesthetic outcome is very low (GRADE ⊕□ □ □). No study reported data on recurrence of cancer or health related quality of life. In conclusion, there is a lack of high quality studies that compare the use of matrix with no matrix in immediate breast reconstruction. Specifically, there are no data on risk of recurrence of cancer, delay of adjuvant treatment and Health related quality of life (HRQoL). In addition, there is a risk of bias in many studies. It is often unclear what complications have been included and how they have been diagnosed, and how and when capsular contracture and aesthetic outcome have been evaluated. Controlled trials that further analyse the impact of radiotherapy, type of matrix and type of procedure (one or two stages) are necessary.

Optimizing Outcomes of Postmastectomy Breast Reconstruction With Acellular Dermal Matrix: A Review of Recent Clinical Data

Background: This article reports on the current use of acellular dermal matrix in breast reconstruction. Methods: A literature review of articles on acellular dermal matrix in breast reconstruction from January 1, 2010, through December 20, 2016, was performed and analyzed for trends in acellular dermal matrix use and differences between commonly used acellular dermal matrixes. Findings: Clinical findings varied but include improved cosmesis and more 1-stage reconstructions using acellular dermal matrix. Superiority of sterile versus aseptic acellular dermal matrixes was noted, and the increased incidence of red breast syndrome with AlloDerm was significant. The cost-effectiveness of acellular dermal matrix use despite increased upfront costs was also highlighted. Finally, the article emphasizes the importance of well-vascularized mastectomy flaps and the use of indocyanine green angiography as an adjunct in immediate reconstruction with acellular dermal matrix.

Surveillance and Prevention of Surgical Site Infections in Breast Oncologic Surgery with Immediate Reconstruction

Surgical site infection (SSI) after immediate breast reconstruction is much more common than would be expected after a clean surgical procedure. Although the SSI rates reported in individual studies are quite variable, there are no obvious explanations for the variation in infection rates between institutions. The microbiology of these SSIs is unusual, with higher proportions of infections caused by atypical Myobacterium species and Gram-negative bacilli than would be expected for this anatomic site. In an effort to prevent SSIs, many surgeons use a variety of different practices including irrigation and soaking of implants with antibiotic solutions and prolonged duration of prophylactic antibiotics, although the literature to support these practices is very sparse. In particular, prolonged use of antibiotics post-discharge is concerning due to the potential for harm, including increased risk of Clostridium difficile infection, development of antibiotic resistant organisms, and drug-related allergic reactions. With higher rates of mastectomy and breast implant reconstruction in women with early-stage breast cancer, including greater utilization of reconstruction in higher-risk individuals, the number of women suffering from infection after oncologic reconstruction will likely continue to increase. It is imperative that more research be done to identify modifiable factors associated with increased risk of infection. It is also essential that larger studies with rigorous study designs be performed to identify optimal strategies to decrease the risk of SSI in this vulnerable population.

Does Acellular Dermal Matrix Thickness Affect Complication Rate in Tissue Expander Based Breast Reconstruction?

Background. While the benefits of using acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) in breast reconstruction are well described, their use has been associated with additional complications. The purpose of this study was to determine if ADM thickness affects complications in breast reconstruction. Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed including all tissue expander based breast reconstructions with AlloDerm (LifeCell, Branchburg, NJ) over 4 years. We evaluated preoperative characteristics and assessed postoperative complications including seroma, hematoma, infection, skin necrosis, and need for reintervention. We reviewed ADM thickness and time to Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain removal. Results. Fifty-five patients underwent 77 ADM-associated tissue expander based breast reconstructions, with average age of 48.1 years and average BMI of 25.9. Average ADM thickness was 1.21 mm. We found higher complication rates in the thick ADM group. Significant associations were found between smokers and skin necrosis (p < 0.0001) and seroma and prolonged JP drainage (p = 0.0004); radiated reconstructed breasts were more likely to suffer infections (p = 0.0085), and elevated BMI is a significant predictor for increased infection rate (p = 0.0037). Conclusion. We found a trend toward increased complication rates with thicker ADMs. In the future, larger prospective studies evaluating thickness may provide more information.