Breast Reconstruction Patients Research Articles

Complications After Prepectoral Versus Subpectoral Breast Reconstruction in Patients Receiving Postmastectomy Radiation Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Outcomes of immediate breast reconstructions can be influenced by postoperative radiotherapy. However, there is no clarity on the use of prepectoral or subpectoral breast reconstruction in the setting of postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). We reviewed evidence on the complication rates of prepectoral and subpectoral breast reconstruction in women undergoing PMRT. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were scanned for studies comparing complication rates of prepectoral and subpectoral breast reconstruction with PMRT. All complications were pooled in a random-effect meta-analysis to obtain odds ratio (OR). Eight observational studies were included. Meta-analysis showed no difference in the risk of infections (OR: 1.22 95% CI 0.79, 1.88 I2=0%), implant loss (OR: 0.86 95% CI 0.50, 1.50 I2=14%), seroma (OR: 1.01 95% CI 0.43, 2.34 I2=50%), hematoma (OR: 0.44 95% CI 0.12, 1.71 I2=0%), wound dehiscence (OR: 0.95 95% CI 0.42, 2.17 I2=0%), and skin necrosis (OR: 0.61 95% CI 0.21, 1.75 I2=36%), contracture (OR: 0.46 95% CI 0.15, 1.48 I2=54%) and the need for revision surgeries (OR: 0.85 95% CI 0.45, 1.60 I2=15%) between the prepectoral and subpectoral groups. Data from observational studies indicates that in appropriately selected patients there may not be any difference in the risk of early complications with prepectoral or subpectoral breast reconstruction with PMRT. Current evidence is limited by the small number of studies, short follow-up and selection bias. There is a need for randomized controlled trials comparing the two approaches to obtain robust evidence on long-term outcomes. 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 Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Investigating the Difference in Quality of Life Between Immediate and Delayed Breast Cancer Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

Immediate and delayed breast reconstruction remains a controversial topic. Apart from the clinical outcomes that have to be considered, there is a discrepancy of opinions regarding the potential differences in quality of life. It is essential to clarify this issue, in order to contribute to the reconstruction of the decision-making process. The aim of the study was to investigate potential differences in quality of life between immediate and delayed breast reconstruction patients. A systematic review of the literature was carried out, searching for case-control studies that have comparatively examined the effects of delayed and immediate reconstruction on quality of life. A literature search was carried out using the Medline, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the STROBE checklist for case-control studies. Three studies were found showing that immediate reconstruction led to benefits for the quality of life of patients, while one study showed the opposite. A relevant study revealed no statistically significant differences between the two groups, while another study, showed that immediate reconstruction entailed short-term benefits to quality of life. Four of the studies had debatable methodological approaches. The inconsistent study findings cannot lead to any reliable conclusions regarding differences between immediate and delayed reconstruction in quality of life. It is possible that the results vary due to the time point that the comparisons made. Future research to this direction is warranted.

Abstract PO3-23-04: Patient-reported outcomes and complication profiles of implant-based breast reconstruction in patients with postmastectomy radiation therapy

Abstract Objective: This study aims to investigate the patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and complications of distinct implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) modality for patients with postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on breast cancer patients with stage II-III disease who performed IBBR following with PMRT between September 2016 and April 2022. The patients were categorized into two matched groups: (1) patients receiving prepectoral breast reconstruction (PBR) or subpectoral breast reconstruction (SBR) followed by PMRT; (2) patients undergoing PMRT with the tissue expander (PMRT-TE) or permanent implant (PMRT-PI) groups. PROs were measured with BREAST-Q questionnaire. Early and late complications were recorded and analysed. Results: A total of 55 eligible patients were recruited. For PROs, patients underwent PBR reported significantly higher Satisfaction with Breasts scores (P = 0.003) compared with SBR group, and PMRT-TE group presented higher Satisfaction with Breasts (P = 0.001) but lower Physical Well-being (P = 0.029) scores compared with PMRT-PI group. Moreover, Patients in SBR cohort had a higher risk of capsular contracture (Baker grade III or IV) (20.5% vs 6.3%) and implant dislocation (48.7% vs 12.5%) than patients in PBR cohort. Patients in PMRT-PI group had a slightly higher rate of capsular contracture (Baker grade III or IV) than PMRT-TE group (20.8% vs 12.9%). Conclusions: PBR was associated with lower rates of late complications, especially for implant dislocation, and higher Satisfaction with Breasts scores compared to SBR. In addition, compared to PMRT-TE with PMRT-PI, patients in PMRT-TE cohort reported superior patient-reported outcomes of Satisfaction with Breasts. Table 1. Patient and Tumor Characteristics of 55 Patients Stratified with Prepectoral/Subpectoral and PMRT-TE/PMRT-PI Reconstructive Procedure. XX- XX Table 2. Patient-Reported BREAST-Q Scores XX- XX Table 3. Association of Reconstruction Techniques with Late Complications. XX- XX Citation Format: Jian Liu, Cong Chen, Honggang Chen, Aizhai Xiang, Ruzhen Zheng, Shufang Hu, Jufeng Guo, Li Qu, Jun Zhou, Jiong Wu. Patient-reported outcomes and complication profiles of implant-based breast reconstruction in patients with postmastectomy radiation therapy [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 PO3-23-04.

Absorbable Biosynthetic Scaffolds in Place of Silicone for Breast Reconstruction: A 9-Year Experience with 53 Patients

Background: Few series report on using fat grafting as the primary form of breast reconstruction. A 9-year experience with absorbable biosynthetic scaffolds, used in place of silicone implants, for breast reconstruction is reviewed. Methods: A clinical quality improvement approach was used to evaluate real-world data on a single plastic surgeon’s experience treating breast reconstruction patients over a 7-year period. Results: Fifty-three patients had 74 breasts reconstructed, (following 51 therapeutic mastectomies and 23 prophylactic). Five of the 51 breasts (9.80 %) developed a local recurrence (mean follow-up of 4.5–5.5 years). This compared favorably with the practice’s previous 6 years of silicone reconstructions. The most common complications were benign fat necrosis and oil cysts. More than 100 radiologic examinations were performed without interference by the absorbable implants. By 12–18 months post implantation, very little immune response was seen on histologic examinations of the biosynthetic scaffold constructs. Mature collagen and robust vascularity characterized the “mesh zone,” whereas regenerated adipose tissue was seen in between and on top of the folded sheets of the implants. The average number of fat graft sessions in immediate reconstructions was 2.3, with a mean total fat graft volume of 551 mL, to restore an average mastectomy defect volume of 307 mL. Aesthetic outcomes were much better in the immediate reconstruction of nipple-sparing mastectomy group, which saw 68% achieve an A/B grade; 19%, C grade; and 13%, D/F on subjective grading. Conclusion: This composite strategy, using biosynthetic scaffold and autologous fat grafting, yielded outcomes equivalent to flap reconstructions with the ease of implants.

The Metamorphosis of Patient Priorities Throughout the Breast Reconstruction Process

Abstract Background Breast reconstruction is a lengthy, multi-stage process guided by patients. It is vital to understand how their goals vary over time in order to achieve optimal outcomes. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate how breast reconstruction patients’ priorities changed throughout the reconstructive process. Methods Fifty women who underwent immediate breast reconstruction completed a quality of life survey at their preoperative appointment, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, and then again 10 years later. Scores on the survey’s subsections corresponded to different patient priorities: survival, restitution, symmetry, and enhancement. The relationship between time and survey-measured patient priorities was analyzed with mixed-effects regression models and Tukey’s HSD tests were used to make pairwise comparisons between time points. Results Survival scores decreased between 3 and 12 months after surgery (p < 0.001) before returning to baseline at long-term follow-up. Restitution scores were lowered only at 12 months PO (T4 vs. T1, T2, and T3, p < 0.001; T4 vs. T5, p = 0.003). Symmetry scores increased from preop to 6 months post-operation (p < 0.001), and then fell back to baseline by month 12 (p < 0.001) and remained at that level at long-term follow-up. Enhancement scores increased from pre-op to 12 months after surgery (p < 0.001), before returning to baseline at 10 year follow-up (T1 vs. T5, p > 0.99; T4 vs T5, p < 0.001). Time had an overall significant effect on each subsection score (p < 0.001), but this relationship was restricted to certain time points. Conclusions In the year following immediate breast reconstruction, patients’ concern over their physical health decreases while they become increasingly focused on enhancing the appearance of their reconstructed breasts. However, by ten years after surgery, patients’ priorities were virtually unchanged from their preoperative desires.

Impact of post-operative infection on revision procedures in breast reconstruction: A marketscan database analysis

BackgroundEsthetic complications, such as capsular contracture and soft-tissue contour defects, hinder the desired outcomes of breast reconstruction. As subclinical infection is a prevailing theory behind capsular contracture, we investigated the effects of post-operative infections on these issues and revision procedures. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective database study (2007–2021) on breast reconstruction patients from the MarketScan® Databases. Esthetic complications were defined by their associated revision procedures and queried via CPT codes. Severe capsular contracture (Grade 3–4) was defined as requiring capsulotomy or capsulectomy with implant removal or replacement. Moderate and severe soft-tissue defects were determined by the need for fat grafting or breast revision, respectively. Generalized linear models were used, adjusting for comorbidities and surgical factors (p < 0.05). ResultsWe analyzed the data on 62,510 eligible patients. Post-operative infections increased the odds of capsulotomy (OR 1.59, p < 0.001) and capsulectomy (OR 2.30, p < 0.001). They also raised the odds of breast revision for severe soft-tissue defects (OR 1.21, p < 0.001). There was no significant association between infections and fat grafting for moderate defects. Patients who had post-operative infections were also more likely to experience another infection after fat grafting (OR 3.39, p = 0.0018). In two-stage reconstruction, infection after tissue expander placement was associated with greater odds of infection after implant placement. ConclusionPost-operative infections increase the likelihood of developing severe soft-tissue defects and capsular contracture requiring surgical revision. Our data reinforce the role of infections in the pathophysiology of capsular contracture. Additionally, infections elevate the risk of subsequent infections after fat grafting for moderate defects, further increasing patient morbidity.

A Comparison of Capsular Contracture Rates after Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Using ADM Versus Synthetic Mesh

Abstract Goals/Purpose Capsular contracture is a local complication in which there is tightening of the capsule around the implant. This complication has been shown to occur in 15-30% of implant-based breast reconstruction patients and often requires revision surgery for correction. Prior investigations have suggested that the use of ADM can reduce the risk for development of capsular contracture, with more recent research suggesting that synthetic mesh may provide the same benefit. Several meta-analyses have attempted to compare ADM and mesh use for the prevention of capsular contracture, but they all emphasize the continued need for clinical investigation with direct comparisons. The goal of this study is to assess our own reconstruction patient population to compare capsular contracture rates between ADM and mesh cohorts, as well as to assess for other potential risks that may increase the rate of capsular contracture in these patients. Methods/Technique A 15-year retrospective review of all implant-based breast reconstructions performed by the senior author was performed. All operations occurred between 2008 and 2023 in a hospital setting. Patient demographics were assessed including age, BMI, implant size, radiation history, location of malposition, and use of either ADM or mesh. Post-operative complications including incidence of capsular contracture were recorded. Patients who had documented capsular contracture prior to scaffold insertion were excluded from the study. Wilcoxon signed rank test, 2-sided t-test, and Fischer’s Exact test were used to compare baseline demographics and capsular contracture rates between the two groups, along with a multivariate logistic regression analysis to control for potential confounders. Results/Complications Fifty-two breasts underwent capsulorraphy, of which 25 (48.1%) used ADM and 27 (51.9%) used mesh. Average age was 50.6 years, average BMI was 27.7, average implant size was 541.8 cc, and eight breasts (15.4%) had been irradiated. Average follow-up time was seven years (mean = 85.4 months, range 22 – 149 months, SD = 35.9). Fourteen (26.9%) capsulorraphies were for inferior malposition, 13 (25.0%) for lateral malposition, and 25 (48.1%) were for inferolateral malposition. Patients in the ADM group had significantly more lateral malposition prior to insertion as compared to the mesh group which had more inferior malposition (p=0.0246). There was no significant difference between the two groups for any other recorded baseline demographic; these demographics included age, BMI, hypertension, diabetes, history of tobacco use, radiation, chemotherapy, implant volume, and implant surface texture. Capsular contracture occurred in 2 ADM breasts (8.0%) and 4 mesh breasts (14.8%) with no significant difference between the two groups (p=0.6695). Five of these capsular contractures had documented Baker grades with three grade II, one grade III, and one grade IV. None of the recorded baseline demographics significantly increased the risk for capsular contracture development. Conclusion ADM and synthetic mesh both function as effective tools for reducing the risk of developing capsular contracture after prosthetic breast reconstruction. The rate of capsular contracture with ADM was only 8.0% and the rate with mesh was only 14.8%. Both rates are lower than the 15-30% incidence that has been found in breast reconstruction patients without mesh. None of the patient demographics were significant risk factors for capsular contracture development, so these are unlikely to be confounders. There was no significant difference in rate of capsular contracture between the two groups, suggesting that ADM and mesh are similarly efficacious at preventing capsular contracture in reconstruction patients.

Social Determinants of Health and Patient-reported Outcomes Following Autologous Breast Reconstruction, Using Insurance as a Proxy.

Insurance type can serve as a surrogate marker for social determinants of health and can influence many aspects of the breast reconstruction experience. We aimed to examine the impact of insurance coverage on patients reported outcomes with the BREAST-Q (patient reported outcome measure for breast reconstruction patients, in patients receiving) in patients receiving deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction. We retrospectively examined patients who received DIEP flaps at our institution from 2010 to 2019. Patients were divided into categories by insurance: commercial, Medicaid, or Medicare. Demographic factors, surgical factors, and complication data were recorded. Descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact, Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests, and generalized estimating equations were performed to identify associations between insurance status and five domains of the BREAST-Q Reconstructive module. A total of 1,285 patients were included, of which 1,011 (78.7%) had commercial, 89 (6.9%) had Medicaid, and 185 (14.4%) had Medicare insurances. Total flap loss rates were significantly higher in the Medicare and Medicaid patients as compared to commercial patients; however, commercial patients had a higher rate of wound dehiscence as compared to Medicare patients. With all other factors controlled for, patients with Medicare had lower Physical Well-being of the Chest (PWBC) than patients with commercial insurance (β = - 3.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): -5.0, -1.2, p = 0.002). There were no significant associations between insurance classification and other domains of the BREAST-Q. Patients with government-issued insurance had lower success rates of autologous breast reconstruction. Further, patients with Medicare had lower PWBC than patients with commercial insurance regardless of other factors, while other BREAST-Q metrics did not differ. Further investigation as to the causes of such variation is warranted in larger, more diverse cohorts.

BREAST-Q REACT: Qualitative Assessment of the Design, Functionality, and Clinical Utility of a New Score Interpretation Tool.

The BREAST-Q real-time engagement and communication tool (REACT) was developed to aid with BREAST-Q score interpretation and guide patient-centered care. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the perspectives of patients and providers on the design, functionality, and clinical utility of REACT and refine the REACT based on their recommendations. We conducted three patient focus groups with women who were at least 6 postoperative months from their postmastectomy breast reconstruction, and two provider focus groups with plastic surgeons, breast surgeons, and advanced practice providers. Focus groups were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. A total of 18 breast reconstruction patients and 14 providers participated in the focus groups. Themes identified by thematic analysis were organized into two categories: (1) design and functionality, and (2) clinical utility. On the design and functionality of REACT, four major themes were identified: visual appeal and usefulness; contextualizing results; ability to normalize patients' experiences, noting participants' concerns; and suggested modifications. On the clinical utility of REACT, three major themes were identified: potential to empower patients to communicate with their providers; increase patient and provider motivation to engage with the BREAST-Q; and effective integration into clinical workflow. Patients and providers in this qualitative study indicated that with some modifications, REACT has a great potential to elevate the clinical utility of the BREAST-Q by enhancing patient-provider communication that can lead to patient-centered, clinically relevant action recommendations based on longitudinal BREAST-Q scores.

Scrolling for Answers About Breast Implant Illness: Application of Validated Tools to Assess the Quality of Content on YouTube and TikTok

Introduction: Popular video-sharing platforms YouTube and TikTok offer a plethora of information on the topic of breast implant illness (BII). As a largely patient-driven phenomenon, it is important to understand the influence of social media on patient knowledge regarding BII. This study sought to evaluate the quality, reliability, visibility, and popularity of YouTube and TikTok videos about BII. Methods: Two validated tools for health information, DISCERN and the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT), were utilized to evaluate the quality of information regarding the topic of BII on YouTube and TikTok. High DISCERN score indicates content of superior quality and reliability, while elevated PEMAT scores signify content that is easily understandable and actionable for viewers. The search phrase “breast implant illness” was used to screen videos, which were sorted based on relevance and view count. The first 100 videos that fulfilled inclusion criteria were independently graded by three reviewers. Results: TikTok videos of longer duration, a higher number of shares, and in the patient education category were all significantly associated with a higher total DISCERN score ( P &lt; 0.05). YouTube videos that included a provider or a patient were significantly more likely to have a higher total DISCERN and PEMAT understandability score (all P &lt; 0.05). Discussion of physician education, operation details, and patient experience was significantly associated with higher total DISCERN and PEMAT understandability scores (all P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Total DISCERN and PEMAT scores for videos regarding BII on two popular social media platforms are low. Video length, patient experience categorization, and the presence of a provider are worth considering when developing high-quality online content for breast reconstruction and augmentation patients.

Simultaneous Free Flap Breast Reconstruction Combined With Contralateral Mastopexy or Breast Reduction: A Propensity-Matched National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Study on Postoperative Outcomes.

Simultaneous free flap breast reconstruction combined with contralateral mastopexy or breast reduction can increase patient satisfaction and minimize the need for a second procedure. Surgeon concerns of increases in operative time, postoperative complications, and final breast symmetry may decrease the likelihood of these procedures being done concurrently. This study analyzed postoperative outcomes of simultaneous contralateral mastopexy or breast reduction with free flap breast reconstruction. By using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2010-2020), we analyzed 2 patient cohorts undergoing (A) free flap breast reconstruction only and (B) free flap breast reconstruction combined with contralateral mastopexy or breast reduction. The preoperative variables assessed included demographic data, comorbidities, and perioperative data. Using a neighbor matching algorithm, we performed a 1:1 propensity score matching of 602 free flap breast reconstruction patients and 621 with concurrent contralateral operation patients. Bivariate analysis for postoperative surgical and medical complications was performed for outcomes in the propensity-matched cohort. We identified 11,308 cases who underwent microsurgical free flap breast reconstruction from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from the beginning of 2010 to the end of 2020. A total of 621 patients underwent a free flap breast reconstruction combined with contralateral mastopexy or breast reduction. After propensity score matching, there were no significant differences in patient characteristics, perioperative variables or postoperative medical complications between the 2 cohorts. Simultaneous free flap breast reconstruction combined with contralateral mastopexy or breast reduction can be performed safely and effectively without an increase in postoperative complication rates. This can improve surgeon competence in offering this combination of procedures as an option to breast cancer survivors, leading to better patient outcomes in terms of symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing results, reduced costs, and elimination of the need for a second operation.

Proliferation Patterns of MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells in Lipoaspirate Conditioned Media.

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is a common technique used to enhance aesthetic outcomes in postmastectomy breast reconstruction patients. Adipokines are hormones secreted by adipose tissue that play a critical role in regulating metabolic processes and the immune system. However, dysregulated adipokine secretion and signaling can contribute to the development and progression of cancer by promoting angiogenesis, altering the immune response, and inducing the epithelial mesenchymal transition. We aimed to assess how breast cancer cells behave in conditioned media derived from fat grafting lipoaspirates and gain a better understanding of the potential interactions that may occur within the tumor microenvironment. Patients who were undergoing AFG as a part of breast reconstruction at NY-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center between March 2021 and July 2023 were consented and enrolled in the study. This study was approved by the Weill Cornell Medicine Institutional Review Board (#20-10022850-14). Conditioned media is created using 20% of patient lipoaspirate secretome and 80% starving media. The growth of MCF-7, a human ER/PR+ breast cancer cell line, in conditioned media is assessed using CyQUANT. The breast cancer cells incubated in conditioned media displayed similar growth trends as those in complete media, which is enriched for cell growth (P > 0.05). MCF-7 cell behavior in conditioned media differed significantly from their proliferation patterns when serum starved in 100% starving media (P < 0.05). Our results suggest that there may be inherent factors within the lipoaspirate that may promote MCF-7 proliferation. One potential implication is that AFG used for breast reconstruction should be delayed until local-regional disease control has been established. In addition, based on the in vitro proliferation patterns of breast cancer cells in conditioned media, the safety profile of AFG may be enhanced if the procedure is performed after attaining negative margins and the completion breast cancer treatment.

Flat Aesthetic Mastectomy Closure with the Angel Wing Technique to Address Lateral Adiposity: Technique and Outcome Analysis

Introduction. Oncologic mastectomy in the setting of obesity poses challenges in achieving a flat closure that includes the lateral adiposity. The angel wing (AW) technique was developed to address this issue. We aim to demonstrate the safety of AW by evaluating incidence of arm lymphedema (AL) and decreased range of motion (dROM) in patients postmastectomy with and without the AW closure. Methods. We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study at an academic referral center of patients who underwent mastectomy with and without the AW technique from May 2014 to October 2022. Those who received breast reconstruction (immediate or delayed), partial mastectomy, and male patients were excluded. The presence of postoperative AL and dROM was evaluated. Subgroup analysis was performed for patient factors including BMI, extent of axillary surgery, PMRT, and pathologic stage. Results. A total of 390 patients met inclusion criteria. Of those, 173 (44.4%) underwent AW and 217 (55.6%) had non-AW mastectomy. Expectedly, the average BMI was significantly higher in the AW cohort (p&lt;0.0001). The overall rate of AL was 51/390 (13.1%), seen in 27 (15.6%) undergoing AW and 24 (11.1%) non-AW (p value = 0.18). While the rate of dROM within the cohort was 52/390 (13.1%), 27 (15.6%) underwent AW vs. 24 (11.1%) non-AW (p value = 0.22), resulting in no statistical significance between AW and non-AW mastectomy upon subsequent development of AL or dROM. Conclusion. Our study demonstrates the AW technique does not convey an increased risk of overall AL or dROM, even when considering known risk factors such as obesity, PMRT, and extent of axillary surgery. As we strive to provide our patients with improved surgical techniques for oncologic resection, we submit that this technique is a viable and safe option for achieving the goals of cosmesis with oncologic safety.

Characterizing differential risk effects of body mass index for Asian patients in the United States undergoing breast reconstruction

BackgroundAsian patient populations continue to be underrepresented in both plastic surgery research and rates of breast reconstruction. Better elucidation of reconstruction in Asian women may help guide patient-directed counseling. This study investigates the differential effect of body mass index (BMI), a well-known risk factor, for Asian patients in outcomes after breast reconstruction. MethodsAsian and White breast reconstruction patients were identified by CPT code in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Within each cohort, BMI was converted into percentile ranks for standardized comparisons between cohorts. The effects of BMI on occurrence of complications for Asian and White patients were then quantified with multivariate logistic regression models. ResultsThe final cohort included 86,514 White patients and 4,813 Asian patients, of which 9,876 (11%) and 424 (8.8%) experienced at least one postoperative complication. The average BMI of White patients who experienced complications was 29.2±6.3kg/m2, a higher average than that of Asian patients, 25.6±4.8kg/m2. Higher BMI percentile was a significant predictor of increased risk of complications in White patients (OR: 1.005, 95% CI: 1.004-1.006, p<0.001). In Asian patients, however, BMI percentile was not a significant predictor of postoperative complications (OR: 1.001, 95% CI: 0.997-1.005, p=0.62). BMI percentile significantly predicted risk of unplanned reoperation in both cohorts (p<0.001 and p=0.029, respectively). ConclusionsWhereas BMI is a direct predictor of complications in White populations, this effect is held more inconsistently for Asian patients. Such trends can guide more informed interpretations of BMI in current risk algorithms. Data availability statementThe data that support the findings of this study are publicly available.

In hospital outcomes of autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common comorbid condition that can be associated with postoperative mortality and morbidity. However, the outcome profile of patients with COPD after breast reconstruction has yet to be established. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the postoperative outcomes in patients with COPD who underwent autologous (ABR) and implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR). National Inpatient Sample was used to identify patients who underwent ABR or IBR from Q4 2015 to 2020. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to compare inhospital outcomes between COPD and non-COPD patients while adjusting for demographics, primary payer status, hospital characteristics, and comorbidities. There were 1288 (9.92%) COPD and 11,696 non-COPD patients who underwent ABR. Meanwhile, 1742 (9.70%) COPD and 16,221 non-COPD patients underwent IBR. In both ABR and IBR, patients with COPD had higher rates of seroma (ABR, aOR=1.863, 95% CI=1.022-3.397, and p=0.04; IBR, aOR=1.524, 95% CI=1.014-2.291, and p=0.04), infection (ABR, aOR=1.863, 95% CI=1.022-3.397, andp=0.04; IBR, aOR=1.956, 95% CI=1.205-3.176, and p=0.01), and prolonged LOS (p<0.01). Specifically, patients with COPD in ABR had higher risks of respiratory complications (aOR=1.991, 95% CI=1.291-3.071, and p<0.01) and incurred higher total hospital charges (p<0.01). Meanwhile, patients with COPD undergoing IBR had elevated risks of renal complications (aOR=3.421, 95% CI=2.108-5.55, and p<0.01), deep wound complications (aOR=3.191, 95% CI=1.423-7.153, and p<0.01), and a higher rate of transfers out (aOR=1.815, 95% CI=1.081-3.05, and p=0.02). COPD is an independent risk factor associated with distinct adverse outcomes in ABR and IBR. These findings can be valuable for preoperative risk stratification, determining surgical candidacy, and planning postoperative management in patients with COPD.

In hospital outcomes of autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction in patients with diabetes mellitus: A population-based study of 2015-2020 national inpatient sample.

Breast reconstruction encompasses autologous (ABR) and implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) each with its own sets of potential complications. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with breast reconstruction complications, although most of the studies did not differentiate between the reconstruction procedures. This study conducted a population-based study examining impact of DM on inhospital outcomes in ABR and IBR. Patients underwent ABR or IBR were identified in National Inpatient Sample from Q4 2015 to 2020. A 1:2 propensity score matching was used to address differences in demographics, hospital characteristics, primary payer status, comorbidities, and reconstruction staging between DM and non-DM patients. In hospital outcomes were assessed separately in ABR and IBR. There were 997 (7.68%) DM and 11,987 (92.32%) non-DM patients in ABR. Meanwhile, 1325 (7.38%) DM and 16,638 (92.62%) non-DM patients underwent IBR. DM cohorts in ABR and IBR were matched to 1930 and 2558 non-DM patients, respectively. After matching, DM patients in both ABR and IBR had higher risks of renal complications (ABR, 3.73% vs. 1.76%, p<0.01; IBR, 1.83% vs. 0.78%, p=0.01) and longer length of stay (ABR, p=0.01; IBR, p=0.04). In ABR, DM patients had higher respiratory complications (2.82% vs. 1.19%, p<0.01), excessive scarring (2.72% vs. 1.55%, p=0.03), and infection (2.42% vs. 1.14%, p=0.01), while in IBR, DM patients had higher hemorrhage/hematoma (5.40% vs. 3.40%, p<0.01) and transfer out (1.52% vs. 0.78%, p=0.04). DM was associated with distinct sets of inhospital complications in ABR and IBR, which can be valuable for preoperative risk stratification and informing clinical decision-making for DM patients.

Existing Psychiatric Diagnoses Among Breast Cancer Patients Interact with Outcomes After Autologous and Implant-Based Bilateral Breast Reconstruction: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis

BackgroundBreast reconstruction is an integral postoncologic procedure that has been associated with improved mental health and psychological outcomes. The possible interaction between existing psychiatric diagnoses hospital courses and postoperative complications warrants further exploration. MethodsBilateral breast reconstruction patients were identified from the 2016 to 2018 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-National Inpatient Sample (HCUP - NIS). Number and type of psychiatric diagnoses within the cohort were then evaluated using a host of ICD-10 codes. A propensity score analysis was applied to control for confounding variables such as demographics, existing comorbidities, and hospital characteristics. A binary logistic regression model was then used to identify the prediction value of psychiatric diagnosis and its interaction with modality of reconstruction for objective outcomes like length of hospital stay, treatment charge, and postoperative complications. ResultsA total of 10,114 patients were identified as the final cohort of breast reconstruction patients. 2621 (25.9%) patients possessed an average of 1.4 ± 0.6 existing psychiatric diagnoses. Presence of at least 1 psychiatric diagnosis was a strong predictor alone for extended length of stay (OR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.28-1.41, P < .001) and occurrence of postoperative complications (OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.21-1.41, P < .001). Psychiatric diagnosis displayed a significant interaction with modality of breast reconstruction and conferred a lower increase in risk of extended length of stay in autologous reconstruction when compared to implant-based reconstruction (OR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.72-0.89, P < .001). ConclusionExisting psychiatric diagnoses were shown to strongly predict and modulate risk of adverse postoperative outcomes depending on modality of reconstruction.

From Tip of Brush to Tip of Knife: The Relationship Between Post-Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction and the Classical Arts.

Breast reconstruction is highly complex, requiring navigation of not only clinical and operative realities, but of patient expectations as well. The authors sought to identify historical art pieces that exhibit breast asymmetries and deformities for comparison with photos of breast reconstruction patients seen at the clinic of the senior author to demonstrate that achievement of perfect breast cosmesis is challenging in both breast reconstruction as well as in the classical arts. Open access libraries and Creative Commons images were reviewed to identify appropriate works of art from various time periods and geographic locations. Following artwork selection, photos of breast reconstruction patients were reviewed and paired with selected artworks exhibiting cosmetically similar breasts. A total of 9 pieces of selected historic art were found to have at least one matching patient photo, with 11 correlative patient photos ultimately chosen. Common breast asymmetries and deformities identified included ptosis, asymmetric chest wall placement, asymmetric nipple placement, and absence of the nipple. This review identified diverse artworks of varying styles spanning vast expanses of both geography and time that exhibit breast deformities and asymmetries commonly encountered in patients seeking revision of breast reconstruction. This underscores that creating the cosmetically ideal breast is difficult both in the operating room and the art studio. Importantly, the authors emphasize that the arts frequently celebrate that which is considered beautiful, though to the trained eye of a plastic surgeon, that which is considered beautiful, is often classified as dysmorphic or asymmetric.

Effectiveness of Liposomal Bupivacaine Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) blocks improve pain control and reduce narcotic medication requirements in various surgical procedures. Liposomal bupivacaine may provide more sustained analgesia. This study compares pain related outcomes between standard bupivacaine and liposomal bupivacaine TAP blocks after autologous breast reconstruction. Prospective single-center, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial between March 2021 and December 2022. DIEP flap breast reconstruction patients in a standardized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathway were randomized to receive intraoperative TAPs with either bupivacaine / epinephrine (control) or liposomal bupivacaine / bupivacaine / epinephrine (experimental). Primary outcome was postoperative narcotic medication requirements, with secondary outcomes of pain scores, length of stay (LOS), and narcotic medication refills. 117 patients met inclusion criteria (59 control, 58 experimental). Patient demographics, comorbidities, breast pathologic variables, surgery laterality and immediate versus delayed reconstruction status were equivalent between groups. Control group had significantly higher average pain scores postoperatively (4.3 vs. 3.6, p=0.004). However, there were no significant differences in mean narcotic use (66.9 MME vs 60.2 MME, p=0.47). Both LOS and postoperative narcotic prescription refills were equivalent between groups (2.1 vs 2.2 days, p = 0.55, 22% vs 17.2%, p=0.52). Addition of liposomal bupivacaine to standard bupivacaine TAP block mixture in a standardized ERAS protocol did not demonstrate a significant reduction in postoperative narcotic requirements after DIEP flap breast reconstruction compared to standard bupivacaine alone. Patient-reported pain scores, however, were lower among liposomal bupivacaine patients after the initial 24 hours postoperatively and consistent with a longer duration of analgesia.

Addressing Current Deficits in Patient Education Materials Through Crowdsourcing.

Patient education materials are commonly reported to be difficult to understand. We aimed to use crowdsourcing to improve patient education materials at our institution. This was a department-wide quality improvement project to increase organizational health literacy. There are 6 phases of this pilot study: (1) evaluating preexisting patient education materials, (2) evaluating online patient education materials at the society (the American Society of Plastic Surgeon) and government level (Medline Plus), (3) redesigning our patient education material and reevaluating the education material, (4) crowdsourcing to evaluate understandability of the new patient education material, (5) data analysis, and (6) incorporating crowdsourcing suggestions to the patient education material. Breast-related patient education materials are not easy to read at the institution level, the society level, and the government level. Our new implant-based breast reconstruction patient education material is easy to read as demonstrated by the crowdsourcing evaluation. More than 90% of the participants reported our material is "very easy to understand" or "easy to understand." The crowdsourcing process took 1.5 days, with 700 workers responding to the survey. The total cost was $9. After incorporating participants' feedback into the finalized material, the readability of the material is at the recommended reading level. The material also had the recommended length (between 400 and 800 words). Our study demonstrated a pathway for clinicians to efficiently obtain a large amount of feedback to improve patient education materials. Crowdsourcing is an effective tool to improve organizational health literacy.