Comparative study of immediate implant and expander-implant reconstruction

Abstract

Introduction: The benefits of immediate reconstruction have been increasingly documented in the literature over the past few years. Today, with some exceptions, immediate reconstruction is the preferred surgical choice for breast cancer patients. In the recent years, the number of reconstructions using expanders and implants has increased. Methods: This retrospective study conducted between 2013 and 2014 included patients undergoing mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction, who were divided into direct implant reconstruction and expander treatment groups. Several variables were evaluated. Results: A total of 138 reconstructions (57 implants and 81 expander-implant) were performed. There were no intergroup differences in postoperative complications. Radiotherapy did not influence complications. Implant reconstruction patients underwent fewer surgeries (1.78 vs 2.54) and had fewer postoperative returns (8 vs 11.75). Conclusion: Immediate implant and expander-implant reconstruction approaches present low and similar postoperative complication rates. Patients undergoing implant reconstruction had a lower return rate and underwent fewer surgeries than those undergoing expander-implant reconstruction.

Keywords

• breast neoplasms
• breast
• postoperative complications
• breast implant
• reconstruction