Radical mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction using the Becker prosthesis

Abstract

Summary Background Radical mastectomy in breast cancer patients creates good conditions for effective oncological treatment, however the significant injury is a cause of psychological and social disorders, lack of self acceptance and can be a cause of postural deformation. Immediate breast reconstruction can prevent or reduce the unfavourable side-effects of amputation. Aim The aim of this paper was to present our own observations concerning immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy for cancer. Materials/Methods In the period from 20.09.2000 to 19.09.2003 in the Oncological Surgery Department of the Leszno Hospital, mastectomy followed by immediate breast reconstruction was performed on 65 women in stages 0, I and II of the clinical advancement of breast cancer. Twenty three women were treated by surgery alone, 30 women were given pre or postoperative chemotherapy, 17 received hormone therapy and 6 were given postoperative radiotherapy. The time of post surgical follow-up was between 5 and 36 months. Results Of the 65 women treated 54 (83%) found the aesthetic results to be good or very good. In 3 cases (4.6%) the implant had to be removed owing to complications such as infections (2 cases) or local cancer recurrence (1 case). A symmetry procedure (McKissock, Lejour or Benelli) was later performed on the opposite breast of thirty (46%) of the women. Conclusions In conclusion, immediate breast reconstruction using the Becker prosthesis is safe, well accepted and improves the quality of life for patients after oncological treatment.