BREAST-Q Scores Research Articles

The Silent Majority: A Mixed Methods Analysis on the Perspectives of Women Who Forgo Post Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction

PURPOSE: Post mastectomy breast reconstruction (PMBR) is an important component of breast cancer care that is associated with improved psychosocial well-being and survival.1–3 The Women’s Heath and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 mandated insurance coverage for reconstruction; however, rates of PMBR remain stagnant at approximately 40%.4 There is a paucity of research on women who forgo reconstruction despite representing the majority of the post mastectomy patient population.5 This study addresses that gap by investigating barriers in the preoperative pathway faced by patients who forgo PMBR. METHODS: A mixed-methods study was performed using in-depth qualitative interviews and the BREAST-Q questionnaire. The study population consisted of women who received a referral to plastic surgery but choose to forgo PMBR. Women were stratified into 2 groups based on utilization of the referral to plastic surgery or lack thereof. Separate interview guides were developed for both groups, and interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Interviews were coded and analyzed using iterative methodologies (eg, open, axial, and selective coding) under the grounded-theory framework. The qualitative interview data and quantitative BREAST-Q data were analyzed using concurrent triangulation methodology. Reliability and validation checks included member-checking and inter-rater reliability using Cohen’s kappa statistic (mean kappa = 0.99). RESULTS: Interviews with 8 patients who forwent PMBR revealed: (1) lack of trust in both breast and plastic surgeons was salient; (2) reliance on self-developed support networks and resources; (3) association between lower post mastectomy BREAST-Q scores and decreased utilization of referral to plastic surgery; and (4) dissonance between numerical BREAST-Q scores for psychosocial well-being and reported satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: These findings lay the conceptual groundwork acknowledging that nonlegislative and nonfinancial barriers, such as physician distrust and lack of resources and patient-tailored information, contributes to underutilization of PMBR in certain populations. Use of qualitative methodology uncovered deficits in the current pathway to reconstruction faced by the silent majority of women who forgo PMBR including lack of trust in physicians, resources, and counseling. These findings suggest unmet needs of patients considering PMBR which necessitates efforts to address these deficits and increase quality of life and satisfaction after mastectomy by empowering vulnerable patient groups. REFERENCES: 1. Ng SK, Hare RM, Kuang RJ, et al. Breast reconstruction post mastectomy: patient satisfaction and decision making. Ann Plast Surg. 2016;76:640–644. 2. Lee CN, Deal AM, Huh R, et al. Quality of patient decisions about breast reconstruction after mastectomy. JAMA Surg. 2017;152:741–748. 3. Sheehan J, Sherman KA, Lam T, et al. Association of information satisfaction, psychological distress and monitoring coping style with post-decision regret following breast reconstruction. Psychooncology. 2007;16:342–351. 4. American Cancer Society. What are the key statistics about breast cancer? Available at http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-key-statistics. 5. Alderman AK, Hawley ST, Janz NK, et al. Racial and ethnic disparities in the use of postmastectomy breast reconstruction: results from a population-based study. J Clin Oncol. 2009;27:5325–5330.

Worse overall health status negatively impacts satisfaction with breast reconstruction

BREAST-Q is a validated measure of patient satisfaction and health-related quality of life following breast surgery. Limited evidence exists with regard to the influence of preoperative overall health status on BREAST-Q outcomes. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification is representative of preoperative overall health and its impact on patient-reported outcomes can be assessed. Patients who received breast reconstruction at Yale New Haven Hospital between 2013 and 2018 and completed the BREAST-Q were enrolled in the study. Associations between BREAST-Q scores within modules and between modules and ASA were analyzed. Pearson's correlation and Spearman's Rho were used to characterize correlations between patient factors and BREAST-Q scores. Significantly correlated factors were entered into a general linear model (GLM) to control for confounding variables and isolate the effect of ASA on BREAST-Q scores. A total of 1136 patients underwent breast reconstruction of whom 489 patients completed the BREAST-Q. Increasing ASA indicative of worsening overall health was associated with a decreased BREAST-Q score for all modules except Physical Well-being of the Abdomen (p<0.01 to p = 0.029). In a GLM controlling for relevant covariates, ASA remained a significant contributor for all modules except Physical Well-being of the Chest (p<0.01 to p = 0.021). BREAST-Q scores decreased by approximately twice as much from ASA 1 to 2 compared to ASA 2 to 3. ASA classification is an independent predictor of BREAST-Q patient-reported outcomes following breast reconstruction. Communicating the potential impact of overall health may help reduce the discrepancy in postoperative satisfaction across ASA classifications.

Pure fat grafting for breast reconstruction: An alternative autologous breast reconstruction.

Plastic surgeons offer various options for breast reconstruction based on patient preference, underlying disease, and comorbidities. An alternative form of breast reconstruction exists, which includes tissue expansion with tissue expander and subsequent fat grafting without the use of implant or flap. We retrospectively reviewed the breast cancer patients who underwent breast reconstruction at our institution to identify those with pure fat grafting. Demographic information, complications, operative details, and BREAST-Q scores were abstracted. From 2010-2015, 10 patients were identified. Patients with unilateral or bilateral mastectomy followed by pure fat grafting had a median of 3.5 or 4 sessions and a total median fat grafting volume of 380 or 974.5cc, respectively. Patients were followed for 12months, and no complications or breast cancer recurrences were noted. Finally, BREAST-Q scores at the 12-month follow-up were comparable to the preoperative values.

Stability of Long-Term Outcomes in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: An Evaluation of 12-Year Surgeon- and Patient-Reported Outcomes in 3489 Nonirradiated and Irradiated Implants.

Outcomes following prosthetic breast reconstruction have been well studied. However, the majority of studies are limited by short-term follow-up and a lack of aesthetic and patient-reported outcomes. This study objectively examines long-term surgeon- and patient-reported outcomes following two-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction. Consecutive patients undergoing two-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction from 1994 to 2016 performed by the senior author (P.G.C.), with at least 1-year follow-up after implant exchange, were reviewed retrospectively. Long-term surgeon-reported outcomes, including aesthetic and capsular contracture scores, and patient-reported outcomes using the BREAST-Q, were recorded at each outpatient visit and analyzed over the 12-year follow-up period. Retrospective review revealed 2284 patients, or 3489 breasts, that fit the inclusion criteria. Aesthetic scores and capsular contracture rates remained stable over the entire follow-up period. Subset analysis demonstrated that bilateral and nonirradiated reconstructions consistently had the highest aesthetic scores, whereas unilateral irradiated breasts had the lowest. Irradiated breasts consistently had high rates of capsular contracture, although the extent of contracture improved over time in all patients. Patient-reported BREAST-Q scores showed either stability or improvement over time in all patients. Irradiated and nonirradiated patients demonstrated comparable long-term satisfaction with outcomes despite significant differences in satisfaction with their breasts. The authors' study, the largest of its kind, demonstrates that prosthetic breast reconstruction outcomes do not deteriorate over time. This stability is apparent in both long-term surgeon- and patient-reported outcomes data measured in the same patients. These results contradict the surgical dogma surrounding prosthetic breast reconstruction and therefore should be given significant consideration when counseling patients. Therapeutic, IV.

Botulinum Toxin A in Tissue Expander Breast Reconstruction: A Double-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background:Subpectoral tissue expander breast reconstruction is often associated with muscle spasms, pain, and discomfort during tissue expansion. In this study, we hypothesized that an intraoperative injection of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) in the pectoralis major muscle reduces the pain associated with tissue expansion and improves women’s physical well-being.Methods:Between May 2012 and May 2017, women undergoing immediate subpectoral tissue expander breast reconstruction were randomized to administer 100 units of BTX-A or a placebo injection. A numeric pain intensity scale and the physical well-being scale of the BREAST-Q: Reconstruction Module were used to test our hypothesis. Data on postoperative oral narcotic consumption were not collected.Results:Of the 131 women included in the analysis, 48% were randomized to placebo and 52% to BTX-A. The preoperative median pain intensity score was 0 [interquartile range (IQR), 0–1], and the median preoperative BREAST-Q score was 91 (IQR, 81–100). The median slopes for the change in pain intensity scores from baseline throughout tissue expansion for those randomized to placebo and BTX-A were −0.01 (IQR, −0.02 to 0.00) and −0.01 (IQR, −0.02 to 0.00), respectively (P = 0.55). The median slopes for the change in BREAST-Q scores from baseline throughout tissue expansion for those randomized to placebo and BTX-A were 0.04 (IQR, −0.17 to 0.14) and 0.02 (IQR, −0.06 to 0.13), respectively (P = 0.89).Conclusion:In this study, we found that an intraoperative intramuscular injection of 100 units of BTX-A in the pectoralis major muscle did not reduce postoperative pain and patient-reported physical well-being when compared with placebo.

A comparison of patient-reported outcomes between Alloderm and Dermacell in immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction: A randomized control trial

Alloderm and Dermacell are the two leading human acellular dermal matrices (ADM) in immediate breast reconstruction (IBR). Despite differences in sterility, consistency, thickness and cost, there are no comparative trials to date to compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) between the two products. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a difference in patient-reported outcomes (as measured by the BREAST-Q) between patients reconstructed with Alloderm and Dermacell. A single center, open-label, randomized control trial of patients undergoing IBR with an implant for breast cancer or breast cancer prophylaxis was performed. Patients were randomized to either Alloderm or Dermacell. Baseline demographic data were compared, and linear mixed models were used to identify associations with BREAST-Q over time. Between June 2016 and October 2018, 62 patients were randomized into two groups, 31(50%) Alloderm and 31(50%) Dermacell. Of these, 23(74%) patients in the Alloderm group and 27(87%) patients of the Dermacell group filled out BREAST-Q questionnaires. Baseline BREAST-Q scores with respect to satisfaction with breasts, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, and physical well-being were similar between groups (p>0.05). At 3 months postoperatively, the Alloderm group had a statistically significant improvement with respect to satisfaction with breasts (67 vs 53, p = 0.03), satisfaction with overall results (85 vs 61, p = 0.003), satisfaction with the surgeon (89 vs 67, p = 0.01), and satisfaction with information provided (74 vs 59, p = 0.02). At 12 months postoperatively, there were no statistically significant differences in PROM between groups (p>0.05). We report the first randomized controlled trial to date comparing patient-reported outcomes of the two most commonly used ADMs in IBR in Canada. Although a short-term analysis favors the use of Alloderm, there does not appear to be any difference in outcomes between the two products in the longer term.

Impact of surgical complications on patient reported outcomes (PROs) following nipple sparing mastectomy

IntroductionNipple sparing mastectomy (NSM) is oncologically safe and provides excellent cosmetic outcomes. Complications after surgery may impact patient reported outcomes (PROs). We assessed the impact of complications on PROs after NSM. MethodsWe enrolled 63 patients (pts) who met eligibility criteria for NSM from September 2011 until August 2014. PROs were administered before surgery and at 1 year. Clinical data were collected from the electronic health record. Analyses were performed in SPSS Statistics for Windows (version 21.0). Pts with and without complications were compared using a one-way ANOVA. DataSixty-three women were enrolled with a median age of 46. Postoperative complications requiring surgical treatment were seen in 10 patients (15.9%). Two patients required nipple excision due to necrosis (3.1%). No statistically significant differences in BREAST-Q scores were seen between pts with and without complications. ConclusionExperiencing a complication after initial NSM surgery is not associated with decrease in PROs.

Exploring the Role of Partner Satisfaction in Predicting Patient Satisfaction Regarding Post-mastectomy Breast Reconstruction.

BREAST-Q and a novel partner survey were used to assess relationships among patient satisfaction, perceived partner satisfaction, and reported partner satisfaction in 11 couples. Breast reconstruction patients completed the postoperative BREAST-Q, and their partners completed a survey designed to assess satisfaction with their emotional relationship, partner's breasts, partner's medical care, and sexual relationship. The majority of patients were married. Seventy-three percent of women had an implant-based reconstruction, while 27% had an abdominal-based reconstruction. The majority (82%) of patients reported no complications with reconstructive procedures. The mean patient BREAST-Q score was 86 (range, 48-97), and the mean partner score was 87 (64-98). There was a correlation of 0.85 between reported partner satisfaction and patient satisfaction. Fifty-eight percent of partners reported being afraid to touch their partner's reconstructed breasts out of fear of causing pain; 7% of patients reported experiencing pain in the area of their reconstructed breasts. This study reveals that partner satisfaction with breast reconstruction correlates with patient satisfaction. With this knowledge, we will be able to formulate suggestions on how preoperative consultations could be conducted as to optimize patient and partner satisfaction and bridge the gap between patient and partner knowledge of postoperative pain.

The Central Mound Pedicle: A Safe and Effective Technique for Reduction Mammaplasty.

The central mound technique offers a relatively less common approach for breast reduction. This study evaluated the expected safety and efficacy outcomes using this technique in a large patient series. A retrospective review of all patients undergoing central mound breast reduction at the authors' institution between June of 1999 and November of 2018 was performed. Both bilateral macromastia and unilateral symmetrizing reduction patients were included but evaluated separately for some outcomes. Patient demographics and comorbidities, operative details, postoperative adverse events, and BREAST-Q scores were recorded. Associations between preoperative variables and outcomes were assessed with chi-square tests, Wilcoxon tests, and Kendall tau-b correlations. A total of 325 patients were identified for inclusion (227 bilateral and 98 unilateral; 552 breasts). The average patient age was 46 years, and the average body mass index was 27.4 kg/m. Among the bilateral macromastia patients, the average operative time was 3 hours 34 minutes, and average breast tissue removed was 533 g (right breast) and 560 g (left breast). Among all patients, average follow-up was 169 days. On a per-breast basis for all patients, the following complication rates were observed: seroma, 0.2 percent; hematoma, 1.1 percent; dehiscence, 2.9 percent; infection, 1.5 percent; hypertrophic scar, 4.6 percent; nipple necrosis, 0.4 percent; fat necrosis, 0.9 percent; and skin flap necrosis, 1.7 percent. Using the BREAST-Q Reduction/Mastopexy questions on a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 5, restricted to the bilateral macromastia patient population, all scores improved with statistical significance. The central mound pedicle is a safe and effective approach for reduction mammaplasty for both bilateral macromastia patients and unilateral symmetrizing operations. Therapeutic, IV.

The added value of immediate breast reconstruction to health-related quality of life of breast cancer patients

BackgroundPostmastectomy immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) may improve the quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer patients. Guidelines recommend to discuss the option IBR with all patients undergoing mastectomy. However, substantial hospital variation in IBR-rates was previously observed in the Netherlands, influenced by patient, tumour and hospital factors and clinicians’ believes. Information provision about IBR may have a positive effect on receiving IBR and therefore QoL. This study investigated patient-reported QoL of patients treated with mastectomy with and without IBR. MethodsAn online survey, encompassing the validated BREAST-Q questionnaire, was distributed to a representative sample of 1218 breast cancer patients treated with mastectomy. BREAST-Q scores were compared between patients who had undergone mastectomy either with or without IBR. ResultsA total of 445 patients were included for analyses: 281 patients with and 164 without IBR. Patients who had received IBR showed significantly higher BREAST-Q scores on “psychosocial well-being” (75 versus 67, p < 0.001), “sexual well-being” (62 versus 52, p < 0.001) and “physical well-being” (77 versus 74, p = 0.021) compared to patients without IBR. No statistically significant difference was found for “satisfaction with breasts” (64 versus 62, p = 0.21). Similar results were found after multivariate regression analyses, revealing IBR to be an independent factor for a better patient-reported QoL. ConclusionsPatients diagnosed with breast cancer with IBR following mastectomy report a better QoL on important psychosocial, sexual and physical well-being domains. This further supports the recommendation to discuss the option of IBR with all patients with an indication for mastectomy and to enable shared decision-making.

Patients with psychiatric illness report worse patient-reported outcomes and receive lower rates of autologous breast reconstruction.

Psychiatric well-being impacts on general satisfaction and quality of life. This study explored how the presence of psychiatric diagnoses affects patient-reported outcomes in breast reconstruction and on selection of reconstructive modality. Patients who received breast reconstruction at a tertiary hospital between 2013 and 2018 and completed the BREAST-Q survey were included. BREAST-Q module scores were compared between patients who had a psychiatric diagnosis at presentation and the remaining cohort using t tests. General linear models (GLMs) were used to control for confounding factors. A chi-squared test was used to assess the effect on reconstructive modality, and binary logistic regression was used to control for confounding factors. Of the 471 patients included, 93 (19.7%) had at least one psychiatric diagnosis. Cohorts did not differ significantly by age, BMI, race, ASA classification, or insurance status. Patients with a psychiatric diagnosis experienced a decrease in BREAST-Q scores for the Psychosocial Wellbeing (B=9.16, P=.001) and Sexual Wellbeing (B=9.29, P=.025) modules. On binary logistic regression, patients with a psychiatric diagnosis were less likely to receive autologous reconstruction compared with implant reconstruction (OR=0.489, P=.010). The presence of psychiatric diagnoses is an independent predictor of decreased BREAST-Q. Furthermore, there is a significant disparity in modality of reconstruction given to patients with psychiatric diagnoses. Further study is needed to evaluate interventions to improve satisfaction among at-risk populations and evaluate the reason for low autologous reconstruction in this population.

Effects of latissimus dorsi (LD) flap harvest on shoulder function in delayed breast reconstruction. A long-term analysis considering the acromiohumeral interval (AHI), the WOSI, and BREAST-Q questionnaires

The latissimus dorsi (LD) flap is reliable and versatile with many indications and low donor site morbidity. The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term effects of LD flap on the shoulder function in patients undergoing delayed breast reconstruction. This case-control study enrolled women who underwent implant-based (IB) breast reconstruction, radical lymphadenectomy, and radiotherapy between 2006 and 2016. The study group included 72 women, with a history of severe capsular contracture, who received a secondary LD flap reconstruction. The control group consisted of a matched cohort of 80 patients with IB breast reconstruction. Shoulder function was assessed using the acromiohumeral interval (AHI) measurement in standard X-rays. The validated Western Ontario Shoulder Instability (WOSI) and BREAST-Q questionnaires were used to assess outcomes one year postoperatively and data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test and the Mann-Whitney test. Out of 72 patients from the study group, 40 had valuable pre- and postoperative X-rays to measure the AHI. An AHI reduction was recorded only in 7/40 patients. From the WOSI analysis, no significant differences in shoulder function and back pain between the two groups were registered. BREAST-Q scores in the LD group were higher in most domains, including satisfaction with breasts and psychosocial well-being. However, the Mann-Whitney test showed no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). LD flap, with detachment of its insertions from the humerus, does not seem to have a negative impact on back and shoulder function and is correlated with high patient satisfaction in breast reconstruction following radiotherapy.

Inframammary Fold Incision Can Reduce Skin Flap Necrosis in Immediate Breast Reconstruction With Implant and Conjoined Fascial Flap.

Immediate breast reconstruction with implant (IBRI) can produce good aesthetic results after nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM). Various surgical incisions can be used for NSM. The purpose of this study is to compare outcomes of using an IBRI with dual-coverage fascial flap after NSM with an inframammary fold (IMF) or a radial (Rd) incision. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 88 women who underwent IBRI with dual-coverage fascial flap from March 2015 to June 2018. Inframammary fold incision was used in 19 patients (22 breasts) and Rd incision in 69 patients (75 breasts). In the dual-coverage method, acellular dermal matrix covered the inferomedial quadrant of the breast, and conjoined fascial flap covered the remaining inferolateral quadrant. Patient-reported satisfaction was assessed using the Breast-Q questionnaire, and plastic surgeons assessed aesthetic postoperative scores. Complications and reoperation rates of 2 incisions were as follows: skin flap necrosis rate showed significant difference between 2 groups (IMF, 0.0% [0/22]; Rd, 16.0% [12/75]; P < 0.05). The other complication rates, hematoma, seroma, infection, capsular contracture, and total reoperations showed no significant difference. Postoperative Breast-Q scores were higher in the IMF group (331.9 ± 10.1) than in the Rd group (311.4 ± 11.0; P < 0.05), indicating higher satisfactory rate in the IMF group than in the Rd group. Surgeon-reported scores for breast symmetry, contour, and scar appearance were also higher in the IMF group (P < 0.05). Immediate breast reconstruction with implant with dual-coverage fascial flap after NSM with IMF incision was associated with a lower rate of postoperative skin flap necrosis and improved patient satisfaction, compared with Rd incision. Inframammary fold incisions were associated with improved scar and breast appearance.

Patient reported outcome and cosmetic evaluation following implant-based breast-reconstruction with a titanized polypropylene mesh (TiLOOP® Bra): A prospective clinical study in 269 patients

IntroductionImplant-based or expander-supported breast reconstruction is an established surgical method after mastectomies due to cancer or to prophylactic reasons. Patient reported outcome (PRO) and cosmetic outcome after breast reconstruction with a synthetic surgical mesh was investigated in a prospective, single-arm, multi-center study. Material and methodsPrimary or secondary implant-based breast reconstruction with support of TiLOOP® Bra was performed in 269 patients during the PRO-BRA study. PRO 12 months after breast reconstruction was evaluated using Breast-Q questionnaire. Cosmetic outcome was evaluated by two independent experts by means of pictures taken preoperatively and at the follow-up visits. ResultsBreast-Q and 12 months FU were completed by 210 women. Patients without adverse event had a significantly higher Breast-Q score for “sexual well-being” (p = 0.001); “psychosocial well-being” was negatively influenced by prior therapies (p < 0.01), and older patients had significantly lower scores at 12 months FU compared to pre-OP for “satisfaction with breasts” (p < 0.01) while the opposite was true for younger patients. Unilateral surgery resulted in reduced “satisfaction with breast” at 12 months FU (p < 0.01). Radiotherapy negatively influenced “satisfaction with breast”, “sexual well-being” and “physical well-being chest”. The cosmetic evaluation showed a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the evaluation by the patients and experts with the patients' assessment being worse compared to experts' assessment. ConclusionOur study showed that two years after implant-based breast reconstruction with support of TiLOOP® Bra PRO is influenced by different factors. This information can be used to improve the decision-making process for women who chose implant-based breast reconstruction.

Abstract 20: A Standardized Education Class To Increase Efficiency And Access To Breast Reconstruction

Purpose: Shared decision-making is a key component of patient-centered care and has been shown to improve patient satisfaction and quality of life. Strategies to improve access to breast reconstruction while maintaining high quality standards of patient education, fostering shared decision-making, have not been established in Plastic Surgery so far. Methods: Since January 2019 a 1-hour standardized patient education class was offered to all new patients in addition to standard consultations in the breast reconstruction clinic of the senior author. The number of new patient consultations per clinic day over a period of 6 months and the average consultation time after introduction of the patient education class were compared to the number of new consultations and the consultation time before introduction of the class. To evaluate the patients’ perception of shared decision-making, the 9-item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire(SDM-Q9) and the Satisfaction with Informationscale of the BREAST-Q Reconstruction Module were electronically distributed among the patients and compared between the two groups (n=30 for class participants, n = 20 for non-participants). Results: After introduction of the patient education class, the average duration of new patient encounters was significantly shorter compared to the period before the class was introduced (31.8 min vs. 53.5 min, p < 0.01). Accordingly, the rate of new patient consultations increased by 43.5% from 4.6 to 6.6/clinic day after introduction of the class. No significant differences were seen between class participants and non-participants in the SDM-Q9 scores (average sum score: 96 vs. 91, p = 0.58) and BREAST-Q scores (74 vs. 85, p = 0.14), indicating a non-inferiority of the education class in terms of patient education and autonomy compared to traditional consultations. Conclusion: By introducing a standardized patient education class to our breast reconstruction clinic, we were able to significantly shorten the average duration of new patient encounters, thereby increasing access for patients to breast reconstruction, while at the same time maintaining a high standard of patient education and perceived shared decision-making among patients.

Abstract QS12: A Comparison Of Patient-reported Outcomes Between Alloderm And Dermacell In Immediate Alloplastic Breast Reconstruction: A Randomized Control Trial

Purpose: Alloderm and Dermacell are the two leading human acellular dermal matrices (ADM) in immediate breast reconstruction. Despite differences in sterility, consistency, thickness and cost, there are no comparative trials to date comparing patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) between the two products. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a difference in patient-reported outcomes (as measured by the BREAST-Q) between patients reconstructed with Alloderm and Dermacell. Methods: A single center, open-label, randomized control trial of patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction with an implant for breast cancer or breast cancer prophylaxis was performed. Patients were randomized to either Alloderm or Dermacell. Baseline demographic data was compared, and linear mixed models were used to identify associations with BREAST-Q over time. Results: Between June 2016 and October 2018, 62 patients were randomized into two groups, 31(50%) Alloderm and 31(50%) Dermacell. Of these, 23(74%) patients in the Alloderm group and 27(87%) of the Dermacell group filled out BREAST Q questionnaires. Baseline BREAST-Q scores with respect to satisfaction with breasts, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being and physical well-being were similar between groups (p>0.05). At 3 months postoperatively, the Alloderm group had a statistically significant improvement with respect to satisfaction with breasts (67 vs 53, p=0.03), satisfaction with overall results (85 vs 61, p=0.003), satisfaction with surgeon (89 vs 67, p=0.01) and satisfaction with information provided (74 vs 59, p=0.02). At 12 months postoperatively, there were no statistically significant difference in PROM between groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: We report the first randomized controlled trial to date comparing the patient reported outcomes of the two most commonly used ADMs in immediate breast reconstruction in Canada. Although short term analysis favors the use of Alloderm, there does not appear to be any difference in outcomes between the two different ADM’s in the longer term.

The Superiorly Based Partial Rectus Abdominis and External Oblique Flap for Lower Pole Coverage in Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction: A Prospective Cohort Study of 47 Consecutive Flaps.

This study evaluated health related quality of life and morbidity in patients who had a superiorly based partial rectus abdominis and external oblique (SPREO) flap for lower pole coverage as a component of 2-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction. A prospective cohort study of patients undergoing immediate and delayed 2-stage breast reconstruction including a SPREO flap for lower pole coverage was conducted. The BREAST-Q and a study-specific questionnaire were used to determine outcomes after this procedure. BREAST-Q questionnaires were completed preoperatively and postoperatively and compared with normative values. BREAST-Q questionnaires were completed by 27 women. The mean patient age was 54.3 ± 9.6 years. Mean BREAST-Q scores improved significantly between preoperative and postoperative time points in Satisfaction with Breasts (preoperative 43.2 ± 26.9, postoperative 66.2 ± 19.5, P = 0.001) and Psychosocial Wellbeing (preoperative 59.4 ± 16.4 postoperative 75.5 ± 19.4, P = 0.002). Mean scores were not significantly different in the domains Physical Wellbeing Chest, Physical Wellbeing Abdomen and Sexual Wellbeing. Postoperative BREAST-Q scores were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than previously published normative scores in Satisfaction with Breasts. This study reports the use of the SPREO flap for lower pole coverage in 2-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction and demonstrates that it may be a useful addition to the existing repertoire of flaps used in breast reconstruction.

A standardized patient education class as a vehicle to improving shared decision-making and increasing access to breast reconstruction

Shared decision-making is a key component of patient-centered care and has been shown to improve patient satisfaction and quality of life. Herein, we study the impact of a standardized patient education class for prospective breast reconstruction patients on clinic efficiency, access to care, and perception on shared decision-making. The number of new patient consultations per clinic, as well as average duration of the first individual clinic encounter, was compared before and after the introduction of a standardized education class given by the senior author to all new breast reconstruction patients. To evaluate patients' perception of shared decision-making, the 9-item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q9) and the Satisfaction with Information scale of the BREAST-Q Reconstruction Module were electronically distributed among the patients and compared between the two groups. Introduction of the patient education class was associated with a significant reduction in the duration of new patient encounters compared to historic controls (31.8 min vs. 53.5 min, p<0.01) along with permitting a 43% increase in new patient visits. No differences in self-perceived patient education and autonomy were seen between class participants and historic controls in the SDM-Q9 scores (p = 0.58) and BREAST-Q scores (p = 0.14). The introducing a standardized patient education class translated into a significant reduction in the duration of individual new patient encounters, thereby increasing patient access to care, while maintaining high-quality standards of self-perceived patient education and shared decision-making.

Abstract PD6-1: BREAST-Q satisfaction and quality of life outcomes in young women undergoing mastectomy and reconstruction for breast cancer

Abstract Background: Young women with breast cancer (BC) often receive aggressive local therapy and are more likely to undergo (bilateral) mastectomy and receive postmastectomy radiation (RT) than older women. Our previous work suggested better quality of life (QOL) outcomes among women undergoing breast conserving therapy (BCT) vs. mastectomy, even with reconstruction (recon), although limited data was available regarding recon. In the current analysis, we sought to understand the impact of recon, accounting for RT, on long-term satisfaction and QOL. Methods: Between 10/2016-11/2017, we administered the BREAST-Q, a validated patient-reported outcomes measure designed to evaluate satisfaction and QOL after breast cancer surgery and recon, to 743 women in the Young Women’s Breast Cancer Study, a multi-site prospective cohort that enrolled women diagnosed (dx’d) at age &amp;lt; 40 from 2006-2016. Demographic and treatment information was obtained by surveys and chart review. Recon was defined as autologous, implant or complex (combination of autologous and implant). Mean BREAST-Q scores for each domain (breast satisfaction, physical, psychosocial, and sexual) were compared by recon types and stratified by receipt of RT; higher BREAST-Q scores (range: 0-100) indicate better QOL. Linear regression was used to identify predictors of BREAST-Q scores. Results: 584 women with Stage 0-3 BC completed the Breast-Q at a median of 5.7 [range 2-10] years from dx), 357 (61%) had mastectomy and recon and were included in the analytic sample. Median age at dx was 36 years; 85% had stage 0, 1 or 2 disease; 41% received RT and 76% underwent bilateral mastectomy. 90.5% underwent immediate recon; of which 65.5% were tissue expander placement. Definitive recon included autologous tissue in 16%; implants in 81% and complex recon in 3%. Mean BREAST-Q breast satisfaction, psychosocial, and physical well-being scores differed based on recon type accounting for RT (Table 1). Significantly lower scores for breast satisfaction were seen in women having implant +RT. Scores were not impacted by bilateral procedure, timing of recon, use of tissue expander, extent of axillary surgery, cancer stage or other treatment factors. In multivariate analyses, receipt of RT, lymphedema and implant-based recon were associated with lower breast satisfaction scores. Physical well-being scores were lower for those with complex recon, for non-White women, for women who reported being financially uncomfortable, for those with lymphedema, and for those &amp;lt;5 years from surgery. Psychosocial well-being scores were lower for women who received RT, had BMI &amp;gt;25, and for those who reported being financially uncomfortable. Sexual well-being scores were lower for women with a BMI &amp;gt;25 and for those who reported being financially uncomfortable. Conclusion Type of recon and receipt of radiation among young survivors who undergo mastectomy and recon for early breast cancer appears to have a differential impact on satisfaction and QOL. Our finding of lower breast satisfaction among young women who received RT, particularly after implant recon, underscores the importance of counseling regarding surgical options, especially for women who may receive RT after mastectomy and who are candidates for BCT. Table 1. Unadjusted BREAST-Q scores stratified by RTBREAST-Q DomainAutologous -RT N=29Autologous +RT N=27Implant -RT N=174Implant +RT N=113Complex N=13Global p-valueSatisfaction with Breasts, mean (sd)67 (19)63 (18)64 (18)53 (18)58 (22)&amp;lt;0.01Physical well-being, mean (sd)81 (13)80 (14)80 (15)77 (14)67 (18)0.01Psychosocial well-being, mean (sd)71 (18)64 (18)72 (20)66 (23)62 (20)0.03Sexual well-being, mean (sd)54 (21)50 (24)52 (20)47 (22)48 (27)0.26RT= radiation Citation Format: Laura Dominici, Jiani Hu, Hee Jeong Kim, Tari King, Kathryn Ruddy, Rulla Tamimi, Jeffrey Peppercorn, Lidia Schapira, Virginia Borges, Stephen Come, Ellen Warner, Julia Wong, Ann Partridge, Shoshana Rosenberg. BREAST-Q satisfaction and quality of life outcomes in young women undergoing mastectomy and reconstruction for breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PD6-1.

Prepectoral Two-Stage Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction with and without Acellular Dermal Matrix: Do We See a Difference?

Prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction has gained popularity because of advantages over the subpectoral technique. Acellular dermal matrix use with implant-based breast reconstruction has become common because of its perceived superior aesthetic outcome. Matrices are expensive, however, and recent evidence has pointed to several potential complications. This article reports a series of prepectoral implant-based breast reconstructions with and without acellular dermal matrix and compared their outcomes. This is a single-surgeon retrospective review of patients who underwent staged prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction following nipple-sparing mastectomy over two periods. Patients with well-perfused mastectomy skin flaps with a homogeneous thickness underwent reconstruction with acellular dermal matrix initially. On evolution of the practice, it was not used. Patient demographics, operative data, and complications were analyzed. Aesthetic outcome was measured by the BREAST-Q survey and the Aesthetic Item Scale. A cost analysis was also performed. Forty patients were included (acellular dermal matrix group, n = 19; non-acellular dermal matrix group, n = 21). The nonmatrix group had one case (5 percent) of seroma and one case (5 percent) with hematoma; there were none in the acellular dermal matrix group. Average BREAST-Q and Aesthetic Item Scale scores were 82.3 versus 81.6 (p = 0.954) and 20.98 versus 20.43 (p = 0.640) for the matrix and nonmatrix groups, respectively. The direct cost savings for the authors' institution over 1 year if matrix was not used in all cases of implant-based breast reconstruction would be estimated at $3,105,960 to $6,211,920 for unilateral and bilateral cases, respectively, for Medicare reimbursement. With adequate patient selection, acellular dermal matrix is not always required during two-stage prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction for good aesthetic outcomes. The economic burden on patients and the health care system could be lessened with selective matrix use. Therapeutic, III.