Denervation leads to volume regression in breast cancer.

The nervous system plays a key role in controlling the dynamic functions of multicellular complex organisms. Although peripheral nerves are supposed to play a pivotal role in tumor growth and dissemination, little experimental evidence exists to date. We assessed the effect of denervation on breast cancer growth by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in rats. Human breast cancer cells were implanted into adipofascial flaps with intact or surgically excised supplying nerve. Tumor volumes were measured 2 and 8 weeks after implantation by in vivo MRI. Results were validated by histology. Postoperative tumor volumes at 2 and 8 weeks were reduced by 76% (95% CI: 22-93%) in the denervated groups. Tumor area as determined histologically was reduced by 70% (95% CI: 60-78%). Thus, peripheral denervation may be an effective surgical approach for the palliative treatment of locally progressing or uncontrollable breast cancer.

From Bedside to Bench: The Effect of Muscular Denervation on Fat Grafting to the Breast by Comparing Take Rate, Quality, and Longevity.

BACKGROUND: Autologous fat grafting (AFG) to the breast is a frequent procedure in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. Despite pure volume gain, questions remain regarding the engraftment rate, quality, and longevity. Little is known about the role of recipient tissue or innervation of the grafted area. OBJECTIVES: The goal of this study was to determine the optimal recipient layer and muscular pretreatment of AFG. METHODS: Fat was grafted to the breast, pectoralis muscle, or adjacent subcutaneous tissue of 42 rats. Nerve treatment included excision of a nerve segment, botulinum toxin (BTX) injection, or no treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological workup were carried out after 2 and 6 weeks. RESULTS: Six weeks after AFG, the proportion of viable fat cells within the grafted fat stayed high (median, [IQR]: 81% [72% to 85%]). The signs of inflammation decreased over time. Intramuscular grafting with intact nerves had a decreasing effect on the viability of the grafted cells compared with subcutaneous treatment (-10.21%; 95% confidence interval [-21.1 to 0.68]). CONCLUSIONS: If utilized on an intact nerve, intramuscular injection may lead to inferior results. If the nerve was cut or treated with BTX; however, intramuscular injection tends to be superior. These findings may prove interesting for future studies and eventual clinical application.