One-stage Breast Reconstruction Research Articles

Breast reconstruction with mentor anatomical implants and the risk of implant rotation: A retrospective study of 1134 women

BackgroundImplant rotation is a known complication to breast reconstruction using anatomical implants. However, there is a lack of large studies investigating the risk of implant rotation and potential predisposing risk factors. MethodWe reviewed the medical records of all patients who underwent breast reconstruction with Mentor anatomical implants from 2010 to 2021 at two Danish hospitals. We compared the risk of implant rotation between one- and two-stage breast reconstruction using univariate logistic regression. We analyzed the effect of biological mesh, immediate versus delayed reconstruction, and use of a higher final expander volume than the permanent implant volume on the risk of implant rotation. Finally, we analyzed the success rate of revision surgery for implant rotation. ResultsIn total, 1134 patients were enrolled. Patients who underwent two-stage breast reconstruction (n = 720) had a significantly higher risk of implant rotation than those who underwent one-stage breast reconstruction (n = 426; 11% vs. 5%, p < 0.01). There was no significant association between implant rotation and the use of biological mesh, immediate breast reconstruction, or use of a higher final expander volume than the permanent implant volume. The success rate of revision surgery after implant rotation was 73% (62/85 rotations). ConclusionsTwo-stage breast reconstruction significantly increased the risk of implant rotation compared to one-stage breast reconstruction. The overall risk of implant rotation was low and success rate of revision surgery was high. These findings suggest that anatomical implants are safe to use for breast reconstruction. However, surgeons and patients should be aware of the increased risk of implant rotation after two-stage reconstruction.

Comparative evaluation using PRO of an algorithm of one-stage immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction versus two-stage reconstruction

One-stage direct-to-implant (DTI) immediate breast reconstruction has proven to be an oncologically safe technique, but there are some conditions that do not allow its performance. The introduction of new surgical techniques and the recent COVID-19 pandemic have pushed us to introduce a breast reconstruction algorithm in our clinical practice. This allows a one-stage immediate reconstruction for all patients, regardless of their anatomical characteristics, the type of implants used, and the need for postoperative radiotherapy. A total of 40 patients were recruited and divided into two cohorts, 20 patients underwent immediate one-stage breast reconstruction in the period between October 2019 and January 2021, and 20 patients completed the two-stage reconstructive process in the period prior to October 2019. During the follow-up at 6 months, all patients who had completed the reconstructive process filled out the Breast-Q Reconstruction Module Pre and Postoperative scales questionnaire. The outcomes of the questionnaires were compared between the two cohorts, and statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS Statistics 20 (IBM Corporation, Armonk, NY, USA). The analysis of patient-reported outcomes showed that patients from the one-stage group reported better outcomes in all items evaluated. We did not find statistically significant differences concerning the rate of complications and length of hospital stay between the two groups. The analysis of the results shows that the outcomes reported by patients who completed breast reconstruction according to our algorithm are statistically better than those with the two-stage technique.

Influence of radiation therapy on the development of complications in single-stage autologous breast reconstruction with a DIEP-flap in breast cancer patients: a retrospective study

Breast reconstruction after complex oncological treatment is an urgent issue due to the high incidence of breast cancer.&#x0D; Aim. To analyze the effect of postoperative radiotherapy on the incidence of fat necrosis in single-stage autologous breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap and to evaluate the number of complications in groups with and without postoperative radiotherapy, as well as to determine the risk factors for complications.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The medical records of 34 breast cancer patients who underwent one-stage breast reconstruction using a DIEP flap after skin-sparing/subcutaneous mastectomy with and without subsequent radiation therapy were retrospectively studied. The frequency of complications in groups with and without postoperative radiation therapy was assessed.&#x0D; Results. Complications developed in 22 (64.7%) patients out of 34. Mild complications developed in 6 (17.6%) patients (divergence of the edges of the postoperative wound of the anterior abdominal wall). Complications of moderate severity developed in 12 (35.3%) patients. Severe complications developed in 4 (11.8%) patients. Out of 22 patients, 6 (17.4%) patients developed areas of fat necrosis after remote radiation therapy in the delayed period, 4 (11.8%) patients, without ESWL, also developed fat necrosis of a part of the flap (areas up to 5 cm). Excision of the area of fat necrosis of the flap was performed in 2 (5.9%) cases under local anesthesia, the rest of the areas of fat necrosis were not excised. The percentage of complications was higher in the group of patients with obesity (20.6%), which indicates that obesity is a risk factor for the development of intraoperative and postoperative complications in patients with simultaneous breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap.&#x0D; Conclusion. During radiotherapy after breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap, the incidence of fat necrosis of the flap was higher. Obesity is a risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications in patients with simultaneous increased breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap, since the incidence of complications was in the group of patients with obesity.

Abstract OT1-13-01: BIOSYM - A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial Comparing Biological Matrices with Synthetic Meshes in Women Undergoing One Stage Implant Based Breast Reconstruction. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05449691

Abstract Research question: Is it feasible to conduct a multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) to test the long-term efficacy and safety of biological matrices compared with synthetic meshes in women undergoing one-stage mesh and implant breast reconstruction as standard care. Background: The use of biological and synthetic meshes in implant-based breast reconstruction has become standard care and is the most widely used procedure in the UK. However, there is limited evidence on patient outcomes and how safe each type of mesh is in the long-term to guide patient choices and surgeon decision-making. Aims: To assess patient and clinician acceptance, recruitment rate, and compliance with randomly allocated intervention. We will evaluate completeness of data on proposed future main study outcomes. The standard deviation (SD) of patient reported ‘satisfaction with breasts’ score on Breast Q will inform sample size calculations for the main study. To inform economic evaluation of main study, we will evaluate completeness of EQ-5D-5L and recommendation of an alternative preference-based QoL measure to be used in a definitive trial. Methods: Design: Pragmatic, feasibility, randomised controlled trial. Target population: Women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer or risk reduction and immediate one-stage breast reconstruction using implant and mesh as standard care. Randomisation: Women will be randomised to biological matrix or synthetic mesh in a 1:1 ratio. Measurement of outcomes Complications: such as infection, wound breakdown, readmission, reoperation, unplanned surgery, skin flap necrosis, implant loss, seroma, pain, capsular contracture and haematoma will be recorded at 3- and 6-months post-surgery. Patient reported outcomes: Women will complete Breast Q and EQ-5D-5L questionnaires at randomisation, 3- and 6-months post-surgery. Sample size: By recruiting 60 (out of 120) we will be able to estimate a participation rate of 50% of women offered the trial to within a 95% confidence interval of +/-9% and a completion rate of 90% (54 of 60) within a 95% confidence interval of (80%, 95%). Additionally, 60 participants will be enough to estimate the SD for sample size calculation for the main study. Timelines for delivery: Recruitment start date: 01 September 2022. Anticipated Impact and Dissemination: The BIOSYM research question has been identified as a key research gap by Association of Breast Surgery (UK). If we can demonstrate feasibility, the definitive trial will provide high quality long-term data on patient outcomes and safety of each type of mesh. Results will be published in peer-reviewed high impact journals and, with PPI partners we will produce patient-facing summaries for a lay audience. The results will inform specialist and NICE guidelines. Citation Format: Amit Goyal, Emanuele Garreffa, Robert Newcombe, Helena Harder, Janice Rose, Valerie Jenkins. BIOSYM - A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial Comparing Biological Matrices with Synthetic Meshes in Women Undergoing One Stage Implant Based Breast Reconstruction. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05449691 [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 OT1-13-01.

Main factors determining the use of free MS-TRAM and DIEP flaps and comparing the results of breast reconstruction

This study aimed to compare the results of free MS-TRAM and DIEP-flap based on the volume of the transplant and the unique characteristics of blood flow in the tissues. The study included 83 patients, 42 in the MS-TRAM-flap reconstruction group and 41 in the DIEP-flap breast reconstruction group. In the MS-TRAM-flap group, 35 patients received delayed reconstruction, and 7 received one-stage breast reconstruction, including one case of bilateral transplantation. In the DIEP-flap group, 5 patients received one-stage reconstruction, and 36 received delayed reconstruction. Complications associated with the flap tissue were observed in 7 (16.67%) in the MS-TRAM-flap group and 8 (19.51%) cases in the DIEP-flap group. The total level of fat necrosis in MS-TRAM-flap was 7.14% (p=0.033), and in DIEP-flap, it was 9.75% (p=0.039) (2 patients had a substantial amount of fat necrosis, while 2 patients had a modest amount of focal fat necrosis). The number and diameter of perforators (including veins), as well as the transplant volume, are the primary determinants of whether to use a DIEP- or MS-TRAM-flap. DIEP-flap is preferred if there are 1-2 large artery perforators (≥1 mm) and tissue volume of 700-800 grams, while MS-TRAM-flap is used when the tissue volume is significant (>2/3 of standard TRAM-flap).

The influence of synthetic and biologic matrices on the choice of the implant plane during breast reconstruction. The modern state of the problem

Immediately after silicone implants were described, the technique of prepectoral implant placement dominated in breast reconstructive surgery. However, this plane soon had to be abandoned due to the high frequency of complications, such as infection, capsular contracture, explantation. For these reasons, surgeons soon had to switch to the subpectoral plane. Several decades later, thanks to the discovery of synthetic and biological meshes, surgeons returned to the prepectoral plane, but at a technically new level.The purpose of this review was to analyze the role of biological and synthetic matrices as factors influencing the choice of the implant plane in one-stage breast reconstruction.

Prediction of Implant Size Based on Breast Volume Using Mammography with Fully Automated Measurements and Breast MRI.

Determination of implant size is crucial for patients with breast cancer undergoing one-stage breast reconstruction. The purpose of this study is to predict the implant size based on the breast volume measured by mammography (MG) with a fully automated method, and by breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a semi-automated method, in breast cancer patients with direct-to-implant reconstruction. This retrospective study included 84 patients with breast cancer who underwent direct-to-implant reconstruction after nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomy and preoperative MG and MRI between April 2015 and April 2019. Breast volume was measured using (a) MG with a fully automated commercial software and (b) MRI with an in-house semi-automated software program. Multivariable regression analyses including breast volume and patient weight (P < 0.05 in univariable analysis) were conducted to predict implant size. MG and MRI breast volume was highly correlated with both implant size (correlation coefficient 0.862 and 0.867, respectively; P values < 0.001) and specimen weight (correlation coefficient 0.802 and 0.852, respectively; P values < 0.001). Mean absolute difference between the MR breast volume and implant size was 160 cc, which was significantly higher than that between the MG breast volume and implant size of 118 cc (P < 0.001). On multivariable analyses, only breast volume measured by both MG and MRI was significantly associated with implant size in any implant type (all P values < 0.001). Breast volume measured by MG and MRI can be used to predict appropriate implant size in breast cancer patients undergoing direct-to-implant reconstruction in an efficient and objective manner.

Comparison of Outcomes in Immediate Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: Acellular Dermal Matrix versus Inferior Dermal Flap.

Background Implant-based breast reconstruction has evolved tremendously in the last decades, mainly due to the development of new products and techniques that make the procedure safer and more reliable. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes in immediate one-stage breast reconstruction between acellular dermal matrix (ADM) and inferior dermal flap (IDF). Methods We conducted a retrospective comparative study of patients submitted to immediate breast reconstructions with an anatomical implant and ADM or IDF in a single center between 2016 and 2018. Outcomes evaluated included major complications, early complications, reinterventions, readmissions, and reconstruction failure. Simple descriptive statistics and univariate analysis were performed. Results A total of 118 breast reconstructions (85 patients) were included in the analysis. Patients in the IDF group had a higher body mass index (median = 27.0) than patients in the ADM group (median = 24). There were no statistically significant differences among both groups regarding immediate major complication, early complications, readmissions, and reinterventions. Conclusion There are no significant differences in complications between the ADM and IDF approach to immediate implant breast reconstruction. In patients with higher body mass index and large, ptotic breasts, we recommend an immediate implant reconstruction with IDF.

Standardized Skin Flap Warming Effectively Improves Flap Survival without Obstructing Temperature Monitoring after DIEP.

Objective:This study aimed to determine whether skin flap warming after an operation interferes with temperature monitoring. The postoperative nursing workflow of subabdominal deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction was optimized.Methods:A retrospective analysis involving 69 patients who received one-stage breast reconstruction at the Huashan Hospital from July 2017 to December 2019 was performed. The postoperative physical care of patients, including flap temperature monitoring and flap warming, was reviewed.Results:All patients had successful operations. After surgery, all flaps were warmed following the standard protocol. Abnormal temperature and compromised circulation of flaps were observed in three of the patients. These patients received re-exploration surgery and all three flaps survived. A postoperative follow-up shows a high level of patient satisfaction in most cases.Conclusions:The appropriate warming of transplanted flaps did not interfere with temperature monitoring. This helped determine whether there was compromised circulation, leading to increased skin flap survival and improved patient satisfaction.

The effect of extra safety measures on incidence of surgical site infection after alloplastic breast reconstruction

This study aimed to evaluate whether the implementation of extra perioperative safety measures and precautions through adopted standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure optimal anti-microbial conditions has led to less surgical site infections (SSI) after alloplastic breast reconstruction (BR). This retrospective study compared two Cohorts of patients treated before and after the implementation of new SOPs (2009-2014: Cohort 1 versus 2014-2019: Cohort 2). Multivariate logistic regression analyses, adjusting for patient confounders, were implemented to compare SSI incidence between both Cohorts. Overall, SSI incidence was equal in both groups (10%, p=0.545). The incidence of deep SSI was 9% for Cohort 1 and 5% for Cohort 2 (p=0.074). Incidence of SSI-related explantation was 8% and 5%, respectively (p=0.136). After adjusting for patient confounders, no statistically significant difference was seen between both Cohorts in overall SSI, deep SSI incidence, and explantation due to SSI (ORadjusted: -0.31, p=0.452, ORadjusted: 0.16, p=0.747 and ORadjusted: 0.18, p=0.712). Higher BMI, smoking, one-stage BR, and immediate BR were associated with the risk for SSI (p<0.001, p=0.036, p<0.001, and p=0.022, respectively). Extra safety measures to assure optimal anti-microbial conditions did not contribute to lower SSI incidence or SSI-related explantation after alloplastic BR. Confounders such as BMI, smoking, immediate BR, and one-stage BR were correlated to an increased risk for overall SSI, deep SSI, and SSI-related explantation of TE/implants.

Pre-pectoral one-stage breast reconstruction with anterior biological acellular dermal matrix coverage.

Pre-pectoral implant breast reconstruction (IBR) is gaining popularity. Several techniques using different types of meshes and methods of placement have been described, but no method is currently considered standard. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of pre-pectoral IBR using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) for anterior implant cover. Retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients who underwent pre-pectoral IBR between November 2016 to August 2018. Data on demographics, adjuvant therapies and operative technique was collected. Postoperative complications, length of hospital stay and secondary cosmetic procedures were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests and logistic regression. One hundred and eleven pre-pectoral IBR were performed in 65 patients. Median age was 41 [interquartile range (IQR), 35-51.5] years, and BMI 22 (IQR, 20.4-24.4) kg/m2. Therapeutic mastectomy was performed in 33 procedures with nipples preservation in 78 cases. The median mastectomy weight and implant volume was 360 (IQR, 220-533) gr, and 445 (IQR, 400-475) cc respectively. At a median follow-up of 18 (IQR, 12-22.5) months, 37 mastectomies had at least 1 complication, but only 12 required surgery. The implant loss rate was 4.5% (5 cases). Lipofilling as secondary procedure was performed in 10.8% of cases. Factors associated with post-operative complications on univariate analysis were nipple preservation (P=0.028), BMI (P=0.01) and implant volume (P=0.027) but these did not remain significant on multivariate analysis. Pre-pectoral IBR using ADM for anterior implant cover is associated with low complication and reconstructive failure rate. Patient selection and meticulous surgical technique are important for successful outcome.

Delayed breast reconstruction with tram-flap and various modifications after radical mastectomy.

This study describes the experience of radical mastectomies with simultaneous breast reconstruction using TRAM flap in patients with inflammatory breast cancer. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of primary breast reconstruction using the TRAM-flap procedure in patients with an inflammatory form of breast cancer. Our work is associated with some deviation from generally accepted standards: delayed breast reconstruction after radical mastectomy for inflammatory breast cancer. We describe the experience of radical mastectomies with the simultaneous reconstruction of the breast using a TRAM flap in patients with inflammatory breast cancer. This study included 12 patients diagnosed with breast cancer stages IIIB and IIIC. Almost all patients (eleven out of twelve patients) underwent radical mastectomy with one-stage reconstruction using a TRAM flap after chemotherapy. Two years later, one patient (8.3%) showed disease progression in the form of distant metastases in the bones of the spine. One patient (8.3%) had a regional relapse in the displaced flap near the postoperative scar. The rest of the patients (83.4%) showed no signs of continuing the disease. Patients with one-stage breast reconstruction improved socially, and their subjective well-being was better than those who underwent radical mastectomy without reconstruction. Experience in performing one-stage reconstructions in the surgical treatment of patients with inflammatory breast cancer is a reason for restrained optimism regarding the possibility and feasibility of these operations.

One-stage and two-stage breast reconstruction have no meaningful difference in patient quality of life

A clinical decision report appraising Negenborn VL, Young-Afat DA, Dikmans REG, et al. Quality of life and patient satisfaction after one-stage implant-based breast reconstruction with an acellular dermal matrix versus two-stage breast reconstruction (BRIOS): primary outcome of a randomised, controlled trial. Lancet Oncology. 2018;19(9):1205-14. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1470-2045(18)30378-4.

Lithotomy Position for DIEP Flap Elevation in Immediate One-Stage Breast Reconstruction.

Lithotomy Position for DIEP Flap Elevation in Immediate One-Stage Breast Reconstruction.

More evidence for implant-based breast reconstruction.

More evidence for implant-based breast reconstruction.

Dual Coverage of the Inferior Pole with Conjoined Fascial Flap and Acellular Dermal Matrix for Immediate One-Stage Breast Reconstruction with a Prosthetic Implant.

Elevation of a conjoined fascial flap composed of the pectoralis major, serratus anterior, and external oblique fascia is a type of surgical technique using autologous tissue to cover the lower pole after immediate one-stage direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction. However, volumetric breast implants hinder use of this technique alone. For better structural stability and more aesthetically favorable breast contour in large breasts, we have devised a technique involving dual coverage of the lower pole by a conjoined fascial flap and acellular dermal matrix (ADM). Twenty Asian patients underwent DTI breast reconstruction from March 2013 to May 2014. ADM was used to cover the inferomedial quadrant of the breast, and a conjoined fascial flap was elevated to cover the remaining inferolateral quadrant. Both patient- and plastic surgeon-reported outcome measures were assessed using questionnaires. For every domain of the patient- and plastic surgeon-reported questionnaires, the mean scores were between satisfied and very satisfied. Two patients developed a seroma and one patient developed partial skin flap necrosis. Both seromas resolved after a series of aspirations. The necrotic skin flap was revised under local anesthesia 3weeks after the reconstructive surgery. The use of dual coverage of the inferior pole with a conjoined fascial flap and ADM for immediate DTI among patients with large breasts is supported by high scores in both patient- and plastic surgeon-reported outcome measures, as well as low complication rates. 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 .

BIOLOGICAL AND SYNTHETIC MATERIALS IN RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY FOR BREAST CANCER TREATMENT (LITERATURE REVIEW)

During the last years has been a worldwide trend towards rejuvenating breast cancer, and the evolution of reconstructive breast surgery is proceeding at a rapid pace. The surgical method is the primary method in the combined and complex treatment of breast cancer, and radical mastectomy is still the main option for surgical treatment in most Russian clinics. Most women who need a mastectomy prefer a one-stage breast reconstruction, because the woman is quickly rehabilitated psychologically and physically after this operation. Nevertheless, the use of silicone endoprostheses did not solve the problems of breast reconstruction in combined treatment in oncology. The issue remains unresolved of various complications, related not only to infections, but also to the development of capsular contracture after radiotherapy. Many patients with a one-stage breast reconstruction using a silicone endoprostheses lack the volume of their own tissues for reliable shelter of the endoprosthesis. In such cases, synthetic reticulated implants, biological implants or autologous flaps are used to cover and strengthen the lower slope of the reconstructed breast.

Clinical, histological, and ultrasound follow-up of breast reconstruction with one-stage muscle-sparing “wrap” technique: A single-center experience

Prepectoral implant placement and complete coverage with porcine acellular matrix after mastectomy is a new concept in breast surgery presented in few cases in the literature. This paper aimed to present our single-center experience in one-stage breast reconstruction muscle-sparing "wrap" technique by evaluating clinical and aesthetic outcomes, ultrasound and histological examination, and patient quality of life. From January 2014 to January 2017, 52 patients (40 unilateral, 12 bilateral) underwent one-stage muscle-sparing breast reconstructions with Braxon® acellular dermal matrix and implant. In 3 patients, a surgical biopsy and histological examination with immunohistochemical analysis of the periprosthetic tissue were performed. All patients underwent breast ultrasound examination, and the occurrence of capsular contracture was assessed through the Baker classification and by measuring the mammary compliance scores with the Antoon Paar Mammary compliance system. Breast appearance was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and in terms of quality of life using the EOCRT QLQ C-30 and QLQ BR-23 questionnaires. Early and late postoperative complications are reported. Histological and ultrasound evaluation showed a complete integration of the matrix. According to the VAS scale, the EOCRT QLQ C-30, and QLQ BR-23, patients' satisfaction resulted in a high score in terms of quality of life and aesthetic outcomes. The results of this new surgical technique in selected cases are promising in terms of effectiveness and low rate of postoperative complications, but further long-terms evaluations are required.

BRANT (BREAST RECONSTRUCTION AND NODE TRANSPLANTATION) - A ONE-STAGE TRANSPLANTATION OF INGUINAL LYMPH NODES AND DELAYED BREAST RECONSTRUCTION. MODERN CONCEPT IN RECONSTRUCTIVE MICROSURGERY OF LYMPHATIC SYSTEM LESIONS

Secondary lymphedema is one of the common complications after complex treatment of breast cancer. One of the promising methods of treatment of lymphatic edema at the moment is microsurgical autotransplantation of inguinal lymph nodes. Only one method for treating lymphatic edema with a one-stage breast reconstruction was the concept of TBAR (Total Breast Anatomy Restoration), which implies the use of an inguinal lymphatic flap in the unfree variant - with the inclusion of its DIEP flap for delayed breast reconstruction. Cons - the concept is limited to using only the DIEP flap. A patient suffering from lymphatic edema and in need of breast reconstruction may not have enough tissue on the anterior abdominal wall. Therefore, our goal was to create an alternative concept, not tied to a single flap. BRANT (Breast Reconstruction And Node Transplantation) means microsurgical autotransplantation of the inguinal lymph flap into the axillary region and the use of any of the available flaps, to restore anatomical structures and to replenish the volume of the breast. The proposed method allows achieving the following results: for the minimal amount of surgical interventions an attractive type of breast is restored and good results are achieved in the treatment of lymphatic edema of the hand.

Management of Implant Exposure in One-Stage Breast Reconstruction Using Titanium-Coated Polypropylene Mesh: Sub-Mammary Intercostal Perforator Flap.

One-stage implant-based breast reconstruction using titanium-coated polypropylene mesh is a novel approach widely used in Europe. Complication rates in breast reconstruction with the use of titanium-coated meshes seem to be comparable to those in patients with implant-based breast reconstruction alone. However, the use of synthetic meshes in implant-based breast reconstructive surgery leads to new clinical scenarios with the need for the breast surgeon to face new complications. We present an innovative treatment of implant exposure in the absence of infection in patients who underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction with silicone implants and titanium-coated polypropylene mesh by using a pedicled sub-mammary intercostal perforator flap. Four patients who experienced implant exposure without infection have been treated with the use of a sub-mammary intercostal perforator flap. Whole coverage of the exposed implant/mesh with a sub-mammary intercostal perforator flap was obtained in all cases. No post-operative complications have been observed, whereas a pleasant aesthetic result has been achieved. Patients' post-operative quality of life and satisfaction levels were measured by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer breast cancer-specific quality of life QLQ-BR23 questionnaire and showed an average good satisfaction with the post-operative outcomes (mean QLQ-BR23 score 1.9). For the first time, a sub-mammary intercostal perforator flap has been used with the aim of treating implant exposures without removing the prosthesis even in the presence of synthetic meshes, when wound infection was excluded. Although tested on a small series, the sub-mammary intercostal perforator flap might represent a simple, versatile and cost-effective procedure for the management of implant exposure following nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate reconstruction with silicone implants and synthetic meshes. It should be considered to avoid implant removal followed by delayed free flap reconstruction as "salvage surgery." This journal requires that the 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 .