Early Complications after Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Immediate Breast Reconstruction with Silicone Prosthesis: Results of 214 Procedures

Abstract

Background and Aims: Breast reconstruction with silicone prosthesis following nipple-sparing mastectomy has become widely accepted as a reconstruction option in women requiring mastectomy for cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence and some factors influencing early local complications in patients undergoing NSM with immediate implant reconstruction. Material and Methods: Prospective study was performed on a consecutive series of 214 breast reconstructions in 205 patients. All complications during the six weeks after surgery were recorded. 42 prostheses were implanted after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 27 patients previously had radiotherapy due to breast conserving surgery and in all other cases surgery was the primary treatment for cancer. Results: The overall six-week complication rate was 16% (35) and included: major skin flap necrosis (4%, 9 procedures), minor skin necrosis (3%, 7), major infection (2%, 5), minor infection (3%, 7), prolonged seroma formation (3%, 6), haematoma (1%, 2) and epidermolysis (1%, 2). In 6% (12) reconstruction procedures explantation of prosthesis was done. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy were not associated with higher rate of complications. Conclusion: Nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction has acceptable morbidity rate in the hand of experienced oncoplastic surgeon and therefore should be considered as treatment option to women requiring mastectomy.