Autologous Lipotransfer - Daily Therapeutic Practice in Breast Cancer: An Intergroup Analysis Encompassing NOGGO, WSG, GBG, AWO Gyn and DGPRÄC

Abstract

Background: Autologous fat transfer in breast reconstruction has become increasingly important in breast reconstructive surgery. Although the indication to obtain fat, the various operative procedures, and the risks for the patient have been addressed in a large number of studies, detailed information on the everyday use of autologous lipotransfer in breast units in Germany is still lacking. Methods: The objective of the study was to obtain primary data on the use of autologous lipotransfer to treat breast cancer patients in Germany and to determine measures for quality assurance in the daily practice. An online questionnaire concerning breast cancer and lipofilling was sent to specialists in gynecology and plastic surgery. Results: Two-thirds of the specialists who responded to the questionnaire use autologous lipotransfer for breast reconstruction and did not report an increase of local recurrence following lipotransfer. There were only small differences between gynecologists and plastic surgeons regarding the procedure and indication for lipotransfer. The method is highly accepted by patients and physicians, and both gynecologists and plastic surgeons rated the improvement achieved through lipofilling as ‘high'. Conclusions: The lack of randomized controlled data, especially in high-risk patients, demonstrates the necessity for a registry study on this topic. Our survey describes, in detail, the indications for lipofilling as well as its appropriate application in breast cancer patients in Germany and may thereby reduce the present therapeutic uncertainties.