Prepectoral reconstruction with polyurethane-coated implant after skin-sparing mastectomy in patients with breast cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies in the Russian Federation (RF), accounting for 20.9% of the female population in Russia. The surgery remains the primary treatment for breast cancer. Development and improvement of various options for reconstructive plastic surgery provides medical, psychological and social rehabilitation in patients with breast cancer, allows to achieve the best aesthetic and functional results. The possibility of performing such operations contributes to improving the quality of life of patients. According to ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons), 80% of breast cancer reconstructions in the world are performed using silicone implants. Currently, the return of prepectoral space for placement of endoprostheses during breast reconstruction is trending, which is associated not only with the improvement of mastectomy techniques, but also with the coating of implants and the appearance of silicone highly adhesive gel filling of implants. According to the world literature data, the use of polyurethane-coated endoprostheses for prepectoral/subcutaneous reconstruction reduces the risk of capsular contracture, provides a more reliable fixation to the surrounding tissues, and thus allows breast reconstruction without the need for additional cover of the endoprosthesis. The use of the prepectoral space is characterized by a simpler operation technique compared to the retromuscular placement of the implant, the absence of damage to the large pectoral muscle, minimization of pain, reduction of the bed-day in the hospital and a faster rehabilitation period. So, this type of breast reconstruction can be considered as an alternative to submuscular implant placement in primary operable forms of breast cancer with sufficient thickness of the integumentary tissues.