Thermoplastic nipple splint: A simple method of maintaining nipple projection

Abstract

Maintaining projection of the reconstructed nipple is important for achieving natural and aesthetically appealing outcomes in breast reconstruction. Although various methods of avoiding mechanical force on the reconstructed nipple have been developed, the existing methods are inconvenient, crude, non-reusable, and difficult to clean or adjust. In the present study, a simple method of creating a nipple splint using a thermoplastic material is described. This splint can be easily manipulated, washed, and reused, and it is comfortable to wear for long-term use without any complications and convenient for the patient to apply.

Keywords

• casts, surgical
• nipples
• splints
• thermoplastics