Use of the Thermal Camera to Assess the Perfusion of the Nipple-Areola Complex and Lower Adipoglandular Flap in Post-Explantation Mastopexy.

Abstract

Thermography is a valuable tool for assessing tissue temperature. In recent years, explantation surgery has increased due to the fact that, despite technological advancements, breast implants have a limited lifespan and eventually require explantation, whether for pathological, aesthetic, or personal reasons. Among the complications that can arise in breast surgery are necrosis of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) and fat necrosis of the lower dermoglandular flap, which may affect the outcomes. Considering that the blood supply and perfusion of the breast were altered during the initial surgical procedure, and the technique previously used is often unknown, it is crucial to ensure adequate vascularization of the NAC and the flap. This study demonstrates the usefulness of the thermal camera for intraoperative and postoperative monitoring of the NAC and the lower adipoglandular flap, with the goal of determining tissue perfusion and identifying hypoperfused areas for immediate management, thus providing a new safety parameter in breast surgery.Level of Evidence V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .