Disparities in Access to Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Race and Ethnicity Impacts Patient-Reported Outcomes in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Addressing social determinants of health is critical in achieving health equity, and of the many determinants, race and ethnicity are key contributors in postmastectomy breast reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of race and ethnicity on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) and to provide reference values for each cohort.

METHODS

We identified all patients who underwent IBBR between January 2017 and August 2022 and completed the BREAST-Q longitudinally. Race and ethnicity were self-categorized as White, Asian, Black, or Hispanic. Reference values were established. Outcomes of interest were BREAST-Q scores preoperatively, and 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) modeling was performed to assess race and ethnicity as independent predictors of BREAST-Q scores.

RESULTS

Overall, 3281 patients were included, of whom 2479 (75.6%) were White, 296 (9.0%) were Asian, 239 (7.3%) were Black, and 267 (8.1%) were Hispanic. There were significant differences in Physical Well-being of the Chest at all timepoints; Satisfaction with Breasts and Psychosocial Well-being at preoperative, 6 months, and 1 year; and in Sexual Well-being at 1 year. GEE modeling showed that relative to White patients, Asian subjects scored significantly lower on all BREAST-Q domains, while Black and Hispanic patients scored significantly lower on the Physical Well-being of the Chest domain.

CONCLUSION

Racial and ethnic disparities persist within IBBR, with minority patients scoring lower on the BREAST-Q than White patients. This study suggests that more work is needed to understand and improve these PROs in minority patient populations. Individualized reference values may prove beneficial in assessing outcomes over time.

African Americans have worse in-hospital outcomes in autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction: a population-based study from the National Inpatient Sample from 2015 to 2020

African Americans have a long history of disparities in healthcare. However, whether their racial disparity exists in breast reconstruction outcomes is less clear. This study compared short-term outcomes of African Americans and Caucasians who underwent autologous (ABR) and implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR). Patients having ABR or IBR were identified in the National Inpatient Sample from Q4 2015-2020. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to compare in-hospital outcomes between African Americans and Caucasians, adjusted for demographics, socioeconomic status, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics. In ABR, there were 8296 (63.89%) Caucasians and 1809 (13.93%) African Americans. In IBR, there were 12,258 (68.24%) Caucasians and 1847 (10.28%) African Americans. During the same period, 32,406 (64.87%) Caucasians and 7702 (15.42%) African Americans underwent mastectomy, indicating a lower reconstruction rate in African Americans, particularly in IBR. African Americans presented with significant preoperative differences, including younger age, higher comorbid burden, and pronounced socioeconomic disadvantages. After accounting for preoperative differences, in ABR, African Americans had higher renal complications (aOR = 1.575, 95 CI = 1.024-2.423, p = 0.04) hemorrhage/hematoma (aOR = 1.355, 95 CI = 1.169-1.571, p < 0.01), and transfer rate (aOR = 2.176, 95 CI = 1.257-3.768, p = 0.01). In IBR, African Americans had higher superficial wound complications (aOR = 1.303, 95 CI = 1.01-1.681, p = 0.04), flap revision (aOR = 4.19, 95 CI = 1.229-14.283, p = 0.02), and hemorrhage/hematoma (aOR = 1.791, 95 CI = 1.401-2.291, p < 0.01). In both ABR and IBR, African Americans had longer hospital length of stay (p < 0.01). These results highlight evident racial disparities in breast reconstruction for African Americans. Targeted interventions are needed to guarantee equitable access to breast reconstruction services and to address postoperative complications in African Americans.

Disparities in Breast Reconstruction: An Analysis of Treatment Choices

BACKGROUND

Breast reconstruction methods vary based on factors such as medical history, breast size, and personal preferences. However, disparities in healthcare exist, and the role race plays in accessing to different reconstruction methods is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the influence of race and/or ethnicity on the type of breast reconstruction chosen.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study analyzed the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Magee Women's Hospital database, including patients who underwent breast cancer surgery from 2011 to 2022. Multivariate analysis examined race, reconstruction, and reconstruction type (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

The database included 13,260 women with breast cancer; of whom 1763 underwent breast reconstruction. We found that 91.8% of patients were White, 6.8% Black, and 1.24% were of other races (Asian, Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, unknown). Reconstruction types were 46.8% implant, 30.1% autologous, and 18.7% combined. Among Black patients, autologous 36.3%, implant 32.2%, and combined 26.4%. In White patients, autologous 29.5%, implant 48%, and combined 18.2%. Among other races, autologous 36.3%, implant 40.9%, and combined 22.7%. In patients who underwent breast reconstruction, 85.2% underwent unilateral and 14.7% of patients underwent bilateral. Among the patients who had bilateral reconstruction, 92.3% were White, 6.1% were Black, and 1.5% were of other ethnicities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis revealed differences in breast reconstruction methods. Autologous reconstruction was more common among Black patients, and implant-based reconstruction was more common among Whites and other races. Further research is needed to understand the cause of these variations.

Updated Trends and Outcomes in Autologous Breast Reconstruction in the United States, 2016-2019

INTRODUCTION

Autologous breast reconstruction (ABR) has increased in recent decades, although concerns for access remain. As such, our goal is to trend national demographics and operative characteristics of ABR in the United States.

METHODS

Using the National Inpatient Sample, 2016-2019, the International Classification of Disease , Tenth Edition codes identified adult female encounters undergoing ABR. Demographics and procedure-related characteristics were recorded. Discharge weights generated national estimates. Statistical analysis included univariate testing and multivariate regression modeling.

RESULTS

A total of 52,910 weighted encounters met the criteria (mean age, 51.5 ± 10.0 years). Autologous breast reconstruction utilization increased (Δ = +5%), 2016-2019, primarily driven by a rise in deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) reconstructions (Δ = +28%; incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.070; P < 0.001), which were predominant throughout the study period (69%). More recent surgery year, bilateral reconstruction, higher income levels, commercial insurance, and care in the South US region increased the odds of DIEP-based ABR ( P ≤ 0.036). Transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps, bilateral reconstructions, higher comorbidity levels, and experiencing complications increased the length of stay ( P ≤ 0.038). Most ABRs (75%) were privately insured. The rates of immediate reconstructions increased over the study period (from 26% to 46%; IRR, 1.223; P < 0.001), as did the rates of bilateral reconstructions (from 54% to 57%; IRR, 1.026; P = 0.030). The rates of ABRs performed at teaching hospitals remained high (90% to 93%; P = 0.242).

CONCLUSIONS

As of 2019, ABR has become more prevalent, with the DIEP flap constituting the most common modality. With the increasing ABR popularity, efforts should be made to ensure geographic and financial accessibility.

Current Trends in Autologous Breast Reconstruction and the Implications of Impending Changes to Insurance Reimbursement

Introduction In 2019, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) combined all autologous breast flap procedures under one billing code, effective from December 31, 2024. This change will result in equal insurance reimbursement rates for popular flap options, such as transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) and deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps, which were previously billed separately using S-codes based on complexity. Methods This study aimed to analyze insurance code changes for autologous breast reconstruction flap procedures. Data were collected from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' annual plastic surgery statistics reports, including specific insurance codes and case volumes from 2007 to 2020. A comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess recent trends in flap utilization rates, documenting any modifications or additions to the existing codes and their implementation years. Results The study analyzed billing codes and case volumes for autologous breast reconstruction procedures, with a focus on the DIEP flap and other alternatives. Non-autologous breast reconstruction procedures showed consistently higher case volumes compared to autologous procedures from 2007 to 2020. Notably, the popularity of the DIEP flap surpassed that of other flap options after 2011. Conclusion The removal of S-codes for autologous breast reconstruction by CMS and the subsequent potential decrease in insurance coverage for the DIEP flap may lead to a decrease in its utilization and a shift toward more invasive options, like the TRAM flap. This change could result in financial burdens for patients and widen socioeconomic disparities in breast reconstruction, limiting access to preferred reconstructive methods and impacting patient autonomy and overall well-being.

Racial disparities in postmastectomy breast reconstruction following implementation of the affordable care act: A systematic review using a minority health and disparities research framework

BACKGROUND

This systematic review assesses racial disparities for African American (AA) women in breast reconstruction following the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

METHODS

Four databases (Ovid Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between January 2011 and September 2021.

RESULTS

Out of 917 screened articles, 61 were included. The most common metrics were breast reconstruction rates (57.4%) and clinical outcomes (14.8%). Pooled reconstruction rates were 45.7% in white and 38.5% in AA women. 95.1% of studies found disparities in breast reconstruction rates. The greatest influencers on reconstruction rates were individual interactions in the healthcare system (54%), sociocultural environment (39%), behavioral factors (31%), and community interactions with the healthcare system (36%).

CONCLUSION

Racial disparities in postmastectomy breast reconstruction persist. Focusing on implicit bias, communication barriers and infrastructure are the most promising strategies to create equitable access to breast reconstruction for AA women.

Breaking Barriers to Breast Reconstruction among Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Patients at a Large Safety-net Hospital

Socioeconomic disparities remain prevalent among those who undergo breast reconstruction. At our institution, patients must meet certain criteria to become eligible for breast reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of socioeconomic factors on breast reconstruction eligibility, enrollment, choice, and completion at our large safety-net institution.

Implementing patient-reported outcomes in routine clinical care for diverse and underrepresented patients in the United States

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used increasingly in routine clinical care and inform policies, reimbursements, and quality improvement. Less is known regarding PRO implementation in routine clinical care for diverse and underrepresented patient populations.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to identify studies of PRO implementation in diverse and underrepresented patient populations, elucidate representation of clinical specialties, assess implementation outcomes, and synthesize patient needs, concerns, and preferences.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched September 2021 for studies aiming to study PRO implementation in diverse and underrepresented patient populations within the United States. Studies were screened and data extracted by three independent reviewers. Implementation outcomes were assessed according to Proctor et al. taxonomy. A descriptive analysis of data was conducted.

RESULTS

The search yielded 8,687 records, and 28 studies met inclusion criteria. The majority were observational cohort studies (n = 21, 75%) and conducted in primary care (n = 10, 36%). Most studies included majority female (n = 19, 68%) and non-White populations (n = 15, 54%), while fewer reported socioeconomic (n = 11, 39%) or insurance status (n = 9, 32.1%). Most studies assessed implementation outcomes of feasibility (n = 27, 96%) and acceptability (n = 19, 68%); costs (n = 3, 11%), penetration (n = 1, 4%), and sustainability (n = 1, 4%) were infrequently assessed.

CONCLUSION

PRO implementation in routine clinical care for diverse and underrepresented patient populations is generally feasible and acceptable. Research is lacking in key clinical specialties. Further work is needed to understand how health disparities drive PRO implementation outcomes.

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.

Effect of health care disparities on procedure selection of autologous breast reconstruction in Florida

INTRODUCTION

Disparities in access to reconstructive surgery after breast cancer have been reported. We aim to evaluate demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing type of autologous breast reconstruction in Florida.

METHODS

We queried the Florida Inpatient Discharge Dataset to evaluate disparities in type of autologous breast reconstructive surgery between January 1, 2013, and September 30, 2017. Patients 18 years of age or older were included. Women younger than 65 years old on Medicare were excluded. Patients were categorized into three groups according to type of autologous reconstruction: latissimus dorsi pedicled flap (pedicled flap), free flap, or pedicled flap with implant (combined flap). Demographic and socioeconomic variables were evaluated. 𝜒2 and Mann-Whitney tests were used to estimate statistical significance. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to find independent associations.

RESULTS

Our results showed higher odds of reconstruction with free flap in Hispanic patients (odds ratio (OR), 1.66; 95% CI, 1.32-2.09; P < 0.0001) and patients with comorbidities (OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.23-1.71; P < 0.0001). However, patients treated in Central and South Florida were less likely to undergo free flap than combined and pedicled flap reconstructions compared with those treated in North Florida (P < 0.05). Patients insured by Medicaid and Medicare were less likely to undergo free flap than combined or pedicled flap reconstruction compared to patients with private insurance (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified that race, region, insurance, and comorbidity are factors associated with type of autologous breast reconstruction in Florida.