[The value of sonography for the discovery of complications after the implantation of silicone gel prostheses for breast augmentation or reconstruction]. / Stellenwert der Sonographie für die Aufdeckung von Komplikationen nach Implantation von Silikongelkissen zur Mammaaugmentation bzw. -rekonstruktion.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To determine sensitivity and specificity of real-time ultrasonography in detecting breast implant complications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The results of preoperative ultrasonography of 121 silicone implants in 65 patients were compared with the results after operative implant removal. RESULTS: With a sensitivity of 89.25% and a specificity of 92.1%, complications such as gel bleeding (n = 43), rupture with leakage (n = 63), and implant dissolution (n = 4) become manifest. Capsule formation, fibrosis, siliconoma and calcifications were often underestimated in their extent. Negative ultrasonography findings were found in 10.7% (n = 13) with positive clinical findings. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of clinical and ultrasonography findings leads to the detection of implant complications.