Sonographic Criteria for the Confirmation of Implant Rotation and the Development of an Implant-Capsule-Interaction (“Interface”) in Anatomically Formed Textured Breast Implants with Texturised Biocell®-Surface

Abstract

AIM: In comparison to round breast implants, anatomically formed implants have a broader indi-cation spectrum in augmentation surgery for the formation of a natural breast shape. In order to achieve a long-term result, it is necessary for anatomically formed breast implants to remain secured in the position desired and planned initially. In the case of textured implants of a certain pore size and depth, this can be aided by the development of a stabilising implant-capsule-interaction (interface). The aim of this study was to investigate whether there are sonographic criteria for verifying the -position of anatomically formed breast implants and the development of a stable interface. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 628 patients underwent breast implant surgery and were followed up clinically as well as sonographically at the Frauenklinik und Institut fur Asthetische Chirugie am St. Josefs-Hospital, Wiesbaden. 228 implants (Style 410 Inamed McGhain®) were evaluated after a mean of 27 months postoperatively. Only cosmetic augmentations were included in the -results. Verification of the implant position was conducted by palpation as well as by sonography. Statistical analysis was performed using the McNemar-Test (Chi-squared test). RESULTS: Two marker points on the anterior side of the implant capsule in the lower hemisphere, which are designed for intraoperative position monitoring by palpation, could be reproduced sonographically in all cases and the position of the breast implant could thereby by determined. Two cases of clinically apparent implant rotation of more than 90° around the vertical axis were discovered in this way. The sonographical identification of the development of a stable interface between the implant and the periprosthetic capsule is possible when sonographic criteria of the “parasternal movement layer” are met. The sonographic outcome is significantly superior to palpation. CONCLUSION: Breast sonography used for the clinical follow-up of -patients with anatomically formed breast implants represents an -efficient diagnostic supplement with clinical relevance.