Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy Research Articles

Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction

Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction

Abstract PO3-08-12: Oncologic Safety and Preventive Impact of Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy in BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers: A Multicenter Retrospective Study of the Korea Robot-Endoscopy Minimal Access Breast Surgery Study Group (KoREa-BSG)

Abstract Purpose: Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is known for its excellent cosmetic results and acceptable oncologic safety. However, evidence supporting NSM in breast cancer (BC) patients carrying pathogenic variant (PV) or likely pathogenic variant (LPV) in BRCA1/2 genes is still limited. This study aims to evaluate the oncologic safety of NSM in BC patients and examine its preventive effect in unaffected individuals with BRCA1/2 PV/LPV. Methods: In this multicenter, retrospective study was conducted by the Korea Robot-Endoscopic minimal access Breast Surgery study Group (KoREa-BSG). We evaluated data from women who underwent NSM and BRCA1/2 genetic testing across 19 South Korean institutions. This study included BC patients aged between 20 and 80 years who had NSM and BRCA1/2 genetic testing between January 2008 and December 2018. Patients with distant metastasis at the initial diagnosis were excluded. Results: A total of 786 women, encompassing 906 NSM cases, were included. This population comprised 120 patients who underwent bilateral NSM, 666 with unilateral NSM for unilateral BC. Among them, 214 who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The median follow-up period was 62 months, with an age range of 26-74 years (median 44). Sentinel lymph node biopsy was carried out in 74.7% of cases. In the bilateral NSM cohort (n=120), 36 were bilateral BC patients, 41 were unaffected carriers of BRCA1/2 PV/LPV who underwent bilateral risk-reducing NSM (RRNSM), and 33 presented with unilateral BC with BRCA1/2 PV/LPV. In the subset of 33 patients who underwent contralateral RRNSM for unilateral BC, incidental ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) was discovered in two cases. In comparing NSM outcomes according to BRCA status, we found no significant difference in local recurrence (LR) between BC patients with BRCA1/2 PV/LPV (n=172) and those without BRCA1/2 PV/LPV (n=592) (LR rates: 11 in BRCA1/2 PV/LPV vs. 45 in non-carriers; p = 0.7965). Of the 172 BRCA1/2 PV/LPV carriers who did not undergo RRNSM, contralateral BC occurred in 11 patients (6.4%), while no recurrence was recorded in the RRNSM group. Conclusions: NSM appears to be a feasible option in BC patients with BRCA1/2 PV/LPV. While the long-term impact of NSM on breast cancer prevention in BRCA1/2 PV/LPV carriers requires further investigation, current evidence suggests that NSM could serve as an effective risk-reducing strategy. Citation Format: Hong-Kyu Kim, Sung Yoon Jang, Soong June Bae, Eun Young Kim, Chihwan Cha, Hyung Seok Park, Jeeyeon Lee, Jun-Hee Lee, Eun-Shin Lee, Jung Eun Choi, Soo Youn Bae, Hee-Chul Shin, Dongwon Kim, Moo Hyun Lee, Yong-Yeup Kim, Sang-Ah Han, Janghee Lee, Youngwoo Chang, Junwon Min, Sanghwa Kim, Hee Jun Choi, Young-Joon Kang, Sae Byul Lee, Jai Min Ryu. Oncologic Safety and Preventive Impact of Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy in BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers: A Multicenter Retrospective Study of the Korea Robot-Endoscopy Minimal Access Breast Surgery Study Group (KoREa-BSG) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-08-12.

The Impact of Radiation on Nipple Symmetry After Bilateral Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Implant-Based Reconstruction: An Objective Analysis.

Radiation therapy can adversely affect outcomes of implant-based breast reconstruction, potentially complicating procedures like nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM), which is increasingly popular in breast cancer management. This study aims to evaluate the impact of radiation on nipple symmetry in patients undergoing bilateral NSM with implant-based reconstruction. We conducted a retrospective analysis using data from an Emory University review board-approved database. This encompassed bilateral NSMs coupled with immediate implant-based reconstructions. The BCCT.core software was employed to objectively measure nipple asymmetry preoperatively and postoperatively. Metrics, such as Breast Retraction Assessment values, upper nipple retraction, lower breast contour, and nipple to midline (NML) discrepancies were quantified. The study included 80 patients with a minimum of 1 year of follow-up; among them, 15 received radiation therapy (RT) while 65 did not. The reconstructions were divided into tissue expander, used in 39 cases (48.8%), and direct-to-implant (DTI), employed in 41 cases (51.2%). The DTIs were further categorized based on the location of the implant: 22 subpectoral and 19 prepectoral. Radiation was applied to 15 breasts, distributed among prepectoral DTI (4), subpectoral DTI (6), and tissue expander (5). Breast Retraction Assessment scores significantly differed between the nonirradiated and irradiated groups (1.49 vs 2.64, P < 0.0004). Nipple to midline differences and Upper Nipple Retraction also significantly varied postradiation, especially when comparing subpectoral and prepectoral implant placements. Radiation therapy has a detrimental effect on nipple symmetry after bilateral NSM and implant-based reconstruction, with variations seen regardless of the implant's placement or the reconstructive technique utilized. Specifically, subpectoral reconstructions irradiated were prone to lateral nipple displacement, likely related to radiation-induced pectoralis muscle changes, while prepectoral irradiated reconstructions tended to have increased vertical displacement. These insights are crucial for patient education and surgical planning in the context of radiation and breast reconstruction.

A Retrospective Study of the Dual-Main Surgeons’ Endoscopy-Assisted Insufflation Bilateral Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy with Immediate Implant Reconstruction

Background: Endoscopy-assisted breast surgery (EABS) is widely accepted, especially for young breast cancer women. But single-main surgeon’s EABS (SMS-EABS) has a long operation time and lots of blood loss during the surgery. Therefore, we advocate applying dual-main surgeons’ EABS (DMS-EABS) to improve surgical technique. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 34 patients with endoscopy-assisted insufflation bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction from March 2021 to December 2023 in The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University medical database and compared the blood loss, operation time, post-operation hospital stay, implant volume, operation costs, operation complications and breast-Q questionnaire between SMS-EABS and DMS-EABS with statistical analysis. Results: The blood loss (29.38 ml vs 51.67 ml, p&lt;0.05) and operation time (4.38 h vs 5.56 h, p=0.01) in the DMS-EABS group are significantly better than SMS-EABS. There is no statistical difference in post-operation hospital stay, implant volume, operation costs, operation complications, and aesthetic evaluation between the two groups. Conclusion: DMS-EABS has the advantage of reducing blood loss and operation time and it also keeps its aesthetic advantages as same as SMS-EABS. Therefore, it can be widely applied.

Inframammary versus Periareolar Incision: A Comparison of Early Complications in Nipple-sparing Mastectomy.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM), either used therapeutically or prophylactically, may yield more complications than conventional mastectomy. The incision may affect aesthetic outcome and complication rates, with periareolar incisions being associated with nipple-areolar complex (NAC) necrosis. Early complications were compared between NSM performed in 2015-2022 using inframammary fold (IMF) or periareolar incisions. Overall, 180 procedures in 152 patients (bilateral NSM = 28) were included (IMF = 104; periareolar = 76). Mean age (47 versus 43.9 years; P < 0.038), mastectomy weight (312.7 versus 246.8 grams; P < 0.001), implant volume (447.5 versus 409.0 mL; P = 0.002), and use of tissue expanders (68.4% versus 50.0%; P = 0.013) were all greater with periareolar incisions. Prepectoral reconstruction was more common with IMF (18.3% versus 3.9%; P = 0.004). Forty-three complications (23.9%) were recorded (periareolar n = 27, 35%; IMF n = 16, 15.3%; P = 0.0002). NAC necrosis accounted for 17 complications (22.4%) in the periareolar group versus nine (8.5%) in the IMF group (P = 0.002). Necrosis was predominantly moderate (n = 6, 8.3% versus n = 1, 1.0%, respectively) (P = 0.014). Unadjusted odds ratios (OR) for complications [3.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.27-7.26] and necrosis (3.04; 95% CI: 1.27-7.27) were higher in the periareolar group. In the multivariate analysis, necrosis was associated with periareolar incisions [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.92; 95% CI: 1.14-7.44]. Prepectoral reconstruction was associated with IMF incisions (aOR: 25.51; 95% CI: 3.53-184.23; P = 0.001) and with body mass index of more than 25-30 (aOR: 37.09; 95% CI: 5.95-231.10; P < 0.001). Therapeutic mastectomies (aOR: 68.56; 95% CI: 2.50-188.36; P = 0.012) and tissue expanders (aOR: 18.36; 95% CI: 1.89-178.44; P = 0.026) were associated with seromas. Both incisions are viable options; however, the risk of NAC necrosis increased with the periareolar approach. Further research is required.

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy With Immediate Reconstruction After Breast-Conserving Therapy and Radiation: Complications and Oncologic Safety.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) offers improved, patient-centered outcomes with demonstrated oncologic safety (Ann Surg Oncol 2020;27:344-351). Indications for NSM continue to expand to patients outside of the traditional eligibility criteria, including those with prior breast-conserving therapy (BCT) with radiotherapy. Currently, limited data exist evaluating both short- and long-term outcomes in patients proceeding to NSM after prior BCT. All patients undergoing bilateral NSM in a single institution from 2002 through 2017 with history of prior BCT were included in the final cohort, without exclusions. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patient demographics, operative details, and complications. Outcomes assessed included early complications (<30 days from NSM), late complications (>30 days), rates of prosthetic failure, unplanned reoperations, and reconstructive failures, as well as oncologic safety. Student t, χ2, and Fisher exact tests were used to analyze outcomes of paired (BCT vs non-BCT) breasts within each patient. A total of 17 patients undergoing 34 NSMs were included. Each had a history of BCT and either ipsilateral breast recurrence (64.7%), risk-reducing NSM (23.5%), or a new contralateral primary cancer (11.8%). The cohort had a mean age of 51.1 years. With regard to acute complications (ischemia, infection, nipple-areolar complex or flap ischemia or necrosis, and wound dehiscence), there was no significant difference noted between breasts with prior BCT versus no prior BCT overall (41.2% vs 35.3%, respectively; P = 0.724). Complications occurring after 30 days postoperatively (capsular contracture, contour abnormality, animation deformity, bottoming out, rotation, and rippling) in prior BCT breasts versus no prior BCT had no significant differences overall (58.8% vs 41.2% respectively; P = 0.303). The mean follow-up was 5.5 years, during which no patients had a reported locoregional or distant recurrence in either breast. No significant differences in early or late complications were identified between breasts in patients undergoing bilateral NSM with a history of unilateral BCT and XRT. In the 5.5 years of follow-up, there were no recurrences, lending support to NSM for management of recurrent disease in addition to National Comprehensive Cancer Network-recommended total mastectomy. We propose that NSM should not be contraindicated in patients exposed to radiation with BCT.

Fluorescence Imaging to Identify and Preserve Fifth Intercostal Sensory Nerves during Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomies.

The use of nipple-sparing mastectomies has increased steadily over the past 10-15 years. However, one major source of patient dissatisfaction with both skin- and nipple-sparing mastectomies is lost skin and/or nipple sensation postoperatively due to intraoperative, iatrogenic sensory nerve injury. We summarize the case of a 41-year-old woman with BRCA(+) breast cancer who underwent bilateral, risk-reducing nipple-sparing mastectomies, immediately followed by bilateral, direct-to-implant breast reconstruction, in whom a prototype fluorescent imaging camera was used to facilitate sensory nerve identification and preservation. Preoperatively, tactile and thermal quantitative sensory testing were performed using a 30-gauge needle to determine baseline sensory function over both breasts. Then, nipple-sparing mastectomies and direct-to-implant reconstruction were performed. Using a laterally-displaced submammary approach, the anterior intercostal artery perforator neurovascular pedicle was preserved. Then a prototype camera, which emits near-ultraviolet light, was used to detect nerve autofluorescence. Intraoperatively under near-ultraviolet light, both the fifth intercostal nerve and its sensory branches auto-fluoresced clearly, so that surgery was completed without apparent injury to the fifth intercostal nerve or any of its branches. Postoperatively, the patient reported full sensory function throughout both breasts and both nipple-areolar complexes, which was confirmed on both tactile and thermal sensory testing at 3-month follow-up. The patient experienced no complications and rated her overall satisfaction with surgery on both breasts as 10 out of 10. To our knowledge, this is the first time sensory nerve auto-fluorescence has been reported to reduce the likelihood of intraoperative, iatrogenic nerve injury and preserve sensory function.

Low Cancer Occurrence Rate following Prophylactic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) has become widely available for breast cancer prophylaxis. There are limited data on its long-term oncologic safety. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of breast cancer in patients who underwent prophylactic NSM. All patients undergoing prophylactic NSM at a single institution from 2006 through 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographic factors, genetic predispositions, mastectomy specimen pathology, and oncologic occurrences at follow-up were recorded. Descriptive statistics were performed where necessary to classify demographic factors and oncologic characteristics. A total of 871 prophylactic NSMs were performed on 641 patients, with median follow-up of 82.0 months (standard error 1.24). A total of 94.4% of patients ( n = 605) underwent bilateral NSMs, although only the prophylactic mastectomy was considered. The majority of mastectomy specimens (69.6%) had no identifiable pathology. A total of 38 specimens (4.4%) had cancer identified in mastectomy specimens, with ductal carcinoma in situ being the most common (92.1%; n = 35). Multifocal or multicentric disease was observed in seven cases (18.4%) and lymphovascular invasion was identified in two (5.3%). One patient (0.16%), who was a BRCA2 variant carrier, was found to have breast cancer 6.5 years after prophylactic mastectomy. Overall primary oncologic occurrence rates are very low in high-risk patients undergoing prophylactic NSM. In addition to reducing the risk of oncologic occurrence, prophylactic surgery itself may be therapeutic in a small proportion of patients. Continued surveillance for these patients remains important to assess at longer follow-up intervals. Risk, IV.

Abstract P2-15-02: Omentum-Lipoaspirate Free-Flap Breast Reconstruction in Women with BMI &amp;lt;25

Abstract The Omental Fat-Augmented Free-flap (O-FAFF) is being offered at our institution as an alternative method of breast reconstruction. This novel free-flap construct is ideal for underweight and normal weight women who lack abdominal or other donor tissue, desire to avoid donor site morbidity and/or are averse to implant-based reconstruction. We analyze omentum, mastectomy and final construct weights in women with BMI &amp;lt; 25 kg/m2 who underwent nipple-sparing mastectomies and O-FAFF reconstruction. Methods Operative technical features of women undergoing nipple-sparing mastectomies with immediate O-FAFF breast reconstruction over a 34 month period are included. Steps of the operative procedure are as follows: laparascopic omentectomy, liposuction and unilateral or bilateral mastectomy is performed. An acellular dermal matrix (ADM) shell is fashioned around a tissue expander. This mold is filled with the omentum and then engrafted with lipoaspirate followed by microsurgical anastomoses of gastroepiploic artery and vein to internal mammary artery and vein. Weight of biological construct is compared to native breast weight. Results 26 women with average BMI 21.2 kg/m2 underwent unilateral (15) or bilateral (11) nipple-sparing mastectomies and O-FAFF reconstruction. Average omentum weight for 37 breasts was 149 gm (82- 262) and average mastectomy weighed 212.4 gm (85 – 396). The ratio of engrafted fat to omentum weight was 0.73 for unilateral versus 0.91 for bilateral cases. The ratio of omentum-fat graft construct to mastectomy weight was 1.24 for unilateral and 0.96 for bilateral cases. Conclusion O-FAFF is a novel procedure for autologous tissue breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy in underweight and normal weight women. Comparable weight replacement for extirpated native breast is achieved. Citation Format: Irene L. Wapnir, Monica M. Dua, Yulia Zak, Dung Nguyen. Omentum-Lipoaspirate Free-Flap Breast Reconstruction in Women with BMI &amp;lt;25 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-15-02.

Long-Term Outcomes in Prepectoral versus Subpectoral Two-Stage Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction after Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy.

Implant-based breast reconstruction remains the most often used method following mastectomy, but data are lacking regarding differences in complications and long-term patient-reported outcomes for two-stage subpectoral versus prepectoral reconstruction. This study sought to better understand the risks and impact of these reconstructive approaches on overall satisfaction. Patients who underwent unilateral or bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy and two-stage implant-based reconstruction from 2014 to 2019 were identified from the electronic medical records and contacted via email to complete the BREAST-Q survey. Overall satisfaction was measured by the question, "How happy are you with the outcome of your breast reconstruction?" using a six-point Likert scale. Patients were grouped into subpectoral or prepectoral cohorts. Complications were evaluated retrospectively. Only patients who were at least 6 months from their final reconstruction were included in the analysis. Of the 582 patients contacted, 206 (35%) responded. The subpectoral ( n = 114) and prepectoral ( n = 38) groups did not differ significantly by demographic or treatment characteristics. BREAST-Q scores were also comparable. Complication rates were similar, but prepectoral patients had a significantly higher rate of capsular contracture (16% versus 4%, P < 0.05). Bivariate ordered logistic regression identified prepectoral implant placement, having any postoperative complication, and capsular contracture as predictors of less overall happiness. The authors' study suggests that prepectoral patients may have slightly higher complication rates but are as satisfied as subpectoral patients after at least a year of follow-up. Further studies should investigate risk factors for capsular contracture, how the risk changes over time, and how the risk affects patient satisfaction.

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Immediate Reconstruction: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of Satisfaction and Quality of Life.

Although it is intuitive that nipple-sparing mastectomy in selected patients would result in excellent cosmetic outcomes and high patient satisfaction, studies of clinical outcomes and health-related quality of life are limited and show mixed results. This study aimed to use a propensity score-matching analysis to compare satisfaction and health-related quality-of-life outcomes in patients who underwent implant-based reconstruction following bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy or skin-sparing mastectomy. A propensity score-matching analysis (1:1 matching, no replacement) was performed comparing patients undergoing nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomy with immediate bilateral implant-based breast reconstruction. Patients with a history of any radiation therapy were excluded. Matched covariates included age, body mass index, race, smoking history, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, bra size, and history of psychiatric diagnosis. Outcomes of interest included BREAST-Q scores and complications. The authors examined 1371 patients for matching and included 460 patients (nipple-sparing mastectomy, n = 230; skin-sparing mastectomy, n = 230) in the final analyses. The authors found no significant differences in baseline, cancer, and surgical characteristics between matched nipple-sparing and skin-sparing mastectomy patients, who also had similar profiles for surgical complications. Interestingly, the authors found that postoperative Satisfaction with Breasts scores and all other health-related quality-of-life domains were stable over a 3-year period and did not differ significantly between the two groups. Compared with skin-sparing mastectomy, bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy did not improve patient-reported or clinical outcomes when combined with immediate implant-based reconstruction. The impact that nipple-sparing mastectomy may have on breast aesthetics and the ability of the BREAST-Q to gauge an aesthetic result following nipple-sparing mastectomy warrant further investigation. Therapeutic, III.

Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction After Unilateral and Bilateral Mastectomy: Cross-Sectional Study of Patient Satisfaction and Quality of Life with BREAST-Q.

Immediate single stage breast reconstruction is a challenging procedure with the goal of improving the quality of life of patients with breast cancer. The aim of this study is to evaluate using the BREAST-Q patient satisfaction, body perception and quality of life after direct-to-implant breast reconstruction comparing unilateral and bilateral reconstructions. In this study we enrolled 56 women who underwent mastectomy and immediate single-stage direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction at Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome between 2013 and 2020. One year after surgery they were administered electronically the BREAST-Q post-operative module. Our two cohorts of patients consisted in 34 women who received unilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy and DTI breast reconstruction and 22 women who underwent bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy and DTI breast reconstruction. Twenty-four of the 34 patients belonging to the unilateral group responded to the questionnaire (70.5%), while in the bilateral group responders were 16 out of 22 (72.7%). The BREAST-Q scores were compared between the two groups: patients undergoing bilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction showed higher scores in every BREAST-Q domain compared to patients undergoing unilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction with a statistically significant difference in the Satisfaction with breast (P = 0.01), Sexual well-being (P = 0.03), and Satisfaction with implants (P = 0.01) domains. Patients undergoing bilateral DTI breast reconstruction have a favorable postoperative surgical cosmetic outcome with a better patient's body image perception and a higher post-operative level of satisfaction compared to unilateral DTI reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy. 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.

The Impact of Tissue Expander Nipple Asymmetry on Final Implant Symmetry After Bilateral Nipple Sparing Mastectomy.

Asymmetry of nipple position is common in the female population and very difficult to correct after nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM). There are scant data on the impact of tissue expander (TE) nipple asymmetry on final implant nipple symmetry after bilateral NSM. A retrospective review of an institutional review board-approved prospective database of NSM and immediate 2-stage implant reconstruction between June 2014 and December 2019 was performed. BCCT.core software was used to examine TE and final implant nipple asymmetry as well as relative breast implant position. Horizontal and/or vertical asymmetry and breast retraction assessment (BRA) were evaluated. Moderate asymmetry was defined as ≥1 cm and severe asymmetry as ≥2 cm. Lower breast contour ≥1 cm defined implant malposition. Twenty-three patients met the inclusion criteria. Linear regression analysis showed a significant relationship between TE BRA and final BRA (R2 = 0.2321, P = 0.02) with a mean TE BRA of 2.04 and a mean final BRA of 1.53 (P = 0.05). Tissue expander nipple asymmetry was predictive of final BRA score: no TE asymmetry, 0.87, versus TE nipple asymmetry, 1.67 (P = 0.02). Tissue expander lower breast contour ≥1 cm occurred in 8 patients (36.4%) and was associated with implant nipple asymmetry in 7 (87.5%). The second stage of reconstruction significantly improved the nipple asymmetry in those with TE malposition (TE BRA, 2.34, vs final BRA, 1.67; P = 0.05). Two patients who received radiation had increased BRA scores (radiation, 2.14, vs no radiation, 1.47; P = 0.004). Tissue expander nipple asymmetry as measured by BRA score or nipple asymmetry was predictive of final nipple symmetry. The second stage of TE reconstruction improves the nipple asymmetry. Final implant exchange can allow for pocket and implant manipulation, improving nipple symmetry. Radiation therapy to TE reconstruction has a negative impact on nipple symmetry after the final stage.

Symmetry of Nipple Position After Bilateral Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Implant-Based Reconstruction: The Impact of Reconstructive Method.

Asymmetry of nipple position is common in the female population. There are scant data on the impact of bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) and immediate implant-based reconstruction on nipple asymmetry. A retrospective review was performed of an institutional review board approved prospective database of NSM and immediate implant-based reconstruction was performed. BCCT.core software was used to examine preoperative and postoperative nipple asymmetry. It directly calculates the quantitative differences in nipple position between the breasts expressed as breast retraction assessment (BRA). Nipple to sternal notch (N-SN) asymmetry was calculated from the collected data. Sixty-eight patients undergoing bilateral NSM and implant reconstruction were reviewed. Reconstructive methods were tissue expander (TE) 39 (57.4%) and direct to implant (DTI) (prepectoral 13, submuscular 16) 29 (42.6%). The TE group had greater body mass index (BMI) (23.5 vs 22.1, P = 0.02), mastectomy weight (390.7 vs 243.8, P = 0.001) and higher preoperative N-SN asymmetry (TE 0.89 vs DTI 0.59, P = 0.02). Ten patients received radiation (TE group 4, DTI group 6). The TE group had larger implant size (479.1 vs 375.0, P = 0.0001). Overall, TE reconstruction resulted in an increase in nipple asymmetry (mean BRA: preoperative, 1.50 vs postoperative, 1.65), which was not significant. Direct to implant reconstruction increased nipple asymmetry: mean N-SN asymmetry preoperative 0.59 versus postoperative 0.97 (P = 0.04) and mean BRA scores 1.40 and 1.82 (P = 0.06). Both implant locations in the DTI group resulted in an increase in postoperative asymmetry but was significant for the prepectoral group: mean BRA preoperative 1.19 versus postoperative 1.85, P = 0.02 and mean N-SN asymmetry preoperative 0.48 vs postoperative 0.94, P = 0.04. Radiation impacted the final mean BRA score: radiation 2.24 versus no radiation 1.63 (P = 0.05). Patients who underwent TE reconstruction had significantly larger breasts and greater preoperative N-SN asymmetry than the DTI group. Despite this, the TE group resulted in mild increase in nipple asymmetry. Both implant locations in DTI reconstruction resulted in increased postoperative asymmetry but was significant for the prepectoral group. Radiation therapy has a significant impact of nipple asymmetry.

Prevention of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema Using the Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventive Healing Approach: A Case Report

Breast cancer-related lymphedema is a major complication of breast cancer surgery. The lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach, a surgical technique that can prevent breast cancer-related lymphedema, creates a lymphovenous bypass between the damaged axillary lymphatics during axillary lymph node dissection and the axillary vein. We report a case using the unilateral lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach in a patient with bilateral breast cancer. A 58-year-old woman diagnosed with bilateral invasive ductal carcinoma underwent a bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy. The lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach was performed on the left side after axillary lymph node dissection; the lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach was not performed after axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy on the right side. Six months after the surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center stage 2 lymphedema was observed in the lymphography images of the right arm, where the lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach had not been performed.

Bilateral Prophylactic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Analysis of the Risk-Reducing Effect in BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers.

Mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes increase the lifetime risk of developing breast cancer to 68-72% by the age of 80. One of the modalities to manage the risk is a prophylactic mastectomy. Bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy specifically offers the most favorable esthetic outcomes but the evidence for its oncological safety remains limited. Thus, we aimed to compare the occurrence of breast cancer between nipple-sparing mastectomy and surveillance groups of BRCA1 or BRCA 2 mutations carriers. BRCA1 or BRCA2-positive patients undergoing bilateral prophylactic nipple-sparing mastectomy at our department were identified. Only those unaffected by breast cancer were eligible. Each patient was pair-matched with a BRCA1 or BRCA2-positive patient of equal age from the surveillance group. Breast cancer incidence in both groups was recorded and the results were compared. None of 105 patients who underwent NSM between 2009 and 2019 at a single institution with a mean follow-up time of 50months developed breast cancer over this time period. One patient in this group died of an unrelated cause. Nine patients from 105 in the match-paired surveillance group were diagnosed with breast cancer during a mean follow-up time of 58.3months, however, none of them died. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest single-center study of risk-reducing bilateral NSM in healthy BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers. Based on our results and those of other series, we conclude that NSM in its current form appears to be at least equally as safe as other types of mastectomy for preventing breast cancer in BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers. 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 .

Autologous Reconstruction Following Nipple Sparing Mastectomy Achieves Equivalent Aesthetic Outcome as Natural Breasts

We determined the aesthetic outcomes of autologous breast reconstruction in comparison to cosmetically altered or natural breasts. We also examined the effect of perceptions on aesthetic outcomes of breast reconstruction. Images of 10 patients (autologous breast reconstruction following bilateral nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM) (n=5), bilateral breast reduction (n=1), bilateral mastopexy (n=1), bilateral augmentation (n=1), unoperated natural breasts (n=2)), were compiled into a blind three-part survey. Part one asked participants to determine whether the presented breasts are reconstructed after mastectomy and measure aesthetic outcomes (1=poor and 4=excellent). Part two ranks breasts from most desirable to least desirable. Part three presents side-by-side unlabeled pre and postoperative images of patients who have undergone autologous breast reconstruction and asks to select the more aesthetically pleasing breasts. Two thousand images were quantified from 100 surveys (83.3% response rate). Age range of participants was 18-80. Response was not statistically different based on demographics. The rate of correctly identifying breasts as reconstruction after NSM was 62.8% and as natural was 64%. Mean aesthetic scores between the reconstructed and natural breasts were equivalent. Breasts perceived as reconstruction scored significantly lower in five aesthetic factors. The top 3 most desired breasts were augmentation, reconstruction after NSM, and unoperated natural breasts. In paired pre- and postoperative photo comparison, all responses favored postoperative breasts. Aesthetic outcomes after autologous breast reconstruction can be equivalent to natural breasts. Breasts perceived as reconstruction are ranked poorer in aesthetic factors compared to those perceived as natural breasts.

Can indocyanine green perfusion imaging detect microangiopathy in mastectomy skin flaps?

Intraoperative vascular imaging using indocyanine green (ICG) angiography may better predict flap viability than clinical judgement alone. Intraoperative ICG angiography was used in a chronic corticosteroid user undergoing bilateral nipple sparing mastectomy with expander placement. Large blood vessels were visualized, however, the skin surrounding these vessels remained dark. The flap demarcated to full-thickness necrosis that matched the intraoperative SPY findings. Visualization of intact blood vessels may not be sufficient to rule out flap necrosis in some patients. In these circumstances, interpretation of perfusion with consideration of patient factors will be required to accurately predict flap viability.

Ischemic Complications After Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy and Implant-based Reconstruction: A Critical Analysis.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) has a higher incidence of mastectomy skin flap necrosis (MSFN) than skin-sparing mastectomy. The purpose of this study is to analyze predisposing factors for nipple and skin necrosis after bilateral NSM with immediate implant reconstruction. Sixty-two consecutive patients (124 breasts) from a single breast/plastic surgeon underwent bilateral NSM with immediate implant-based breast reconstruction were included. Factors influencing MSFN were analyzed. The mean age was 45.7 years, and mean body mass index was 22.9. Reconstructive methods were as follows: tissue expander (TE), 76 (61.3%); and direct to implant, 48 (38.7%). Mastectomy skin flap necrosis occurred in 39 (31.5%) breasts, nipple necrosis 38 and skin flap necrosis 19. Thirty-seven breasts healed uneventfully, and 2 (1.6%) required reoperation. Cancer pathology, mastectomy weight greater than 279 g, TE reconstruction, and nipple-notch (N-N) distance greater than 23 cm were predictive of nipple necrosis on univariate analysis. The mean mastectomy weight (380.1 g vs 220.7 g, P < 0.0001), N-N distance greater than 23 cm (30 vs 0, P < 0.0001), and mean implant size (490 cm3 vs 373 cm3, P < 0.0001) were greater in the TE group. On logistic regression model controlling for all significant variables, predictors of MSFN were as follows: diagnosis of cancer (odds ratio [OR], 3.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41-8.03; P = 0.006), TE reconstruction (OR, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.03-8.03; P = 0.04), and N-N distance (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.03-1.66; P = 0.03). Mastectomy skin flap necrosis after NSM and implant reconstruction is common. In this series, only 2 (1.6%) cases required surgical intervention with no implant loss. Treatment of breast cancer, TE reconstruction, and increasing N-N notch distance were positive predictors of MSFN.

Persistent nipple discharge after nipple-sparing mastectomy secondary to unincorporated AlloDerm: a case report

BackgroundRates of nipple-sparing mastectomies have increased over the past decade. In 2017, acellular dermal matrix was used in 56% of breast reconstructive procedures, with complication rates similar to operations without AlloDerm. Although persistent nipple discharge after nipple-sparing mastectomy is a rare event, it has been described in the literature. Other authors have described evaluation and treatment on a case-by-case basis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe a persistent unilateral discharge after multiple operative revisions and to provide an algorithmic approach to workup and treatment.Case presentationWe present a case of a 29-year-old Hispanic woman with BRCA1 mutation who underwent a prophylactic bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction using AlloDerm. The year following her operation, the patient underwent two surgical revisions, one for implant rippling and one for asymmetry. Six months after her second revision, she presented to our hospital with a capsular contracture and unilateral clear nipple discharge. Her breast ultrasound showed dilated subareolar ducts and a suspicious mass. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a benign-appearing, rim-enhancing fluid collection. She underwent a third revision. One year later, she returned to our clinic with bloody nipple discharge, erythematous skin changes, and a palpable breast lump. Her surgical biopsy showed a fold in AlloDerm and chronic inflammatory changes. She continued experiencing discharge and opted for nipple excision. During the operation, a lacrimal probe demonstrated a direct connection between the discharging external duct and a seroma associated with an area of unincorporated AlloDerm. The section of unincorporated AlloDerm was excised, and no evidence of malignancy was identified. Ten months later, the patient remained symptom-free and had progressed to placement of final silicone implants.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe a nongravid patient with persistent unilateral sanguineous nipple discharge after multiple operative revisions. A visible communication between the draining duct and a seroma associated with unincorporated AlloDerm was ultimately identified. We present a clinical algorithm for patients with nipple discharge after nipple-sparing mastectomy.