Unforeseen Complications of Pembrolizumab in Breast Reconstruction Post-Mastectomy.

A 53-year-old post-menopausal Indian female presented with invasive ductal carcinoma, treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and pembrolizumab due to a PD-L1 combined positive score of 5. Following a right mastectomy and axillary dissection, she received a breast expander and AlloDerm™ graft. After resuming pembrolizumab and paclitaxel postoperatively, she developed severe breast redness and high-grade fever, necessitating expander removal due to suspected pembrolizumab-induced complications. This case underscores the unique and severe adverse effects of pembrolizumab on breast reconstruction, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and management in patients undergoing similar treatments. LEARNING POINTS: Among patients with early triple-negative breast cancer, the combination of pembrolizumab with neoadjuvant chemotherapy enhances outcomes compared to chemotherapy alone.Early recognition is essential for managing pembrolizumab-induced complications, as demonstrated by the need for expander removal and debridement in this case.The unique adverse effects observed in this case underscore the importance of tailoring cancer treatment plans to individual patients, taking into account the potential risks associated with immunotherapy in the context of reconstructive surgery.

The effect of a local anesthetic cocktail in a serratus anterior plane and PECS 1 block for implant-based breast reconstruction.

Introduction: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been implemented to decrease opioid use and decrease patient hospital length of stay (LOS, days). Serratus anterior plane (SAP) blocks anesthetize the T2 through T9 dermatomes of the breast and can be applied intraoperatively. The purpose of this study was to compare postoperative opioid (OME) consumption and LOS between a control group, an ERAS group, and an ERAS/local anesthetic cocktail group in patients who underwent implant-based breast reconstruction. Methods: In this study, 142 women who underwent implant-based breast reconstruction between 2004 and 2020 were divided into Group A (46 patients), a historical cohort; Group B (73 patients), an ERAS/no-block control group; and Group C (23 patients), an ERAS/anesthetic cocktail study group. Primary outcomes of interest were postanesthesia care unit (PACU), inpatient and total hospital OME consumption, and PACU LOS. Results: A significant decrease was observed from Group A to C in PACU LOS (103.3 vs. 80.2 vs. 70.5; p = 0.011), OME use (25.1 vs. 11.4 vs. 5.7; p < 0.0001), and total hospital OME (120.3 vs. 95.2 vs. 35.9; p < 0.05). No difference was observed in inpatient OMEs between the three groups (95.2 vs. 83.8 vs. 30.8; p = 0.212). Despite not reaching statistical significance, Group C consumed an average of 50-60 % less opioids per patient than did Group B in PACU, inpatient, and total hospital OMEs. Conclusion: Local anesthetic blocks are important components of ERAS protocols. Our results demonstrate that a combination regional block with a local anesthetic cocktail in an ERAS protocol can decrease opioid consumption in implant-based breast reconstruction.

Chatting Up the Next Big Thing: Generating Novel Ideas for Systematic Reviews in Breast Reconstruction Research Using Chat-GPT.

BACKGROUND: In reconstructive plastic surgery, the need for comprehensive research and systematic reviews is apparent due to the field's intricacies, influencing the evidence supporting specific procedures. Although Chat-GPT's knowledge is limited to September 2021, its integration into research proves valuable for efficiently identifying knowledge gaps. Therefore, this tool becomes a potent asset, directing researchers to focus on conducting systematic reviews where they are most necessary. METHODS: Chat-GPT 3.5 was prompted to generate 10 unpublished, innovative research topics on breast reconstruction surgery, followed by 10 additional subtopics. Results were filtered for systematic reviews in PubMed, and novel ideas were identified. To evaluate Chat-GPT's power in generating improved responses, two additional searches were conducted using search terms generated by Chat-GPT. RESULTS: Chat-GPT produced 83 novel ideas, leading to an accuracy rate of 83%. There was a wide range of novel ideas produced among topics such as transgender women, generating 10 ideas, whereas acellular dermal matrix (ADM) generated five ideas. Chat-GPT increased the total number of manuscripts generated by a factor of 2.3, 3.9, and 4.0 in the first, second, and third trials, respectively. While the search results were accurate to our manual searches (95.2% accuracy), the greater number of manuscripts potentially diluted the quality of articles, resulting in fewer novel systematic review ideas. CONCLUSION: Chat-GPT proves valuable in identifying gaps in the literature and offering insights into areas lacking research in breast reconstruction surgery. While it displays high sensitivity, refining its specificity is imperative. Prudent practice involves evaluating accomplished work and conducting a comprehensive review of all components involved.

Three and twelve-month analysis of the PROM-Q study: comparison of patient-reported outcome measures using the BREAST-Q questionnaire in pre- vs. sub-pectoral implant-based immediate breast reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) is being increasingly performed with implant placed above the pectoral muscle (pre-pectoral), instead of below the pectoral muscle (sub-pectoral). Currently, there is a lack of comparative data on clinical and patient-perceived outcomes between pre- vs. sub-pectoral IBR. We investigated whether this difference in surgical approach influenced clinical or patient-perceived outcomes. METHODS: This prospective non-randomised longitudinal cohort study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04842240) recruited patients undergoing immediate IBR at the Leeds Breast Unit (Sep 2019-Sep 2021). Data collection included patient characteristics and post-operative complications. Patient-Reported Outcome Measures were collected using the BREAST-Q questionnaire at baseline, 2 weeks, 3- and 12-months post-surgery. RESULTS: Seventy-eight patients underwent IBR (46 patients pre-pectoral; 59% vs. 32 patients sub-pectoral; 41%). Similar complication rates were observed (15.2% pre-pectoral vs. 9.4% sub-pectoral; p = 0.44). Overall implant loss rate was 3.8% (6.5% pre-pectoral vs. 0% sub-pectoral; p = 0.13). Respective median Breast-Q scores for pre- and sub-pectoral IBR at 3 months were: breast satisfaction (58 vs. 48; p = 0.01), psychosocial well-being (60 vs. 57; p = 0.9), physical well-being (68 vs. 76; p = 0.53), and Animation Q scores (73 vs. 76; p = 0.45). Respective Breast-Q scores at 12 months were: breast satisfaction (58 vs. 53; p = 0.3), psychosocial well-being (59 vs. 60; p = 0.9), physical well-being (68 vs. 78; p = 0.18), and Animation Q scores (69 vs. 73; p = 0.4). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates equivalent clinical and patient-perceived outcomes between pre- and sub-pectoral IBR. The study findings can be utilised to aid informed decision making regarding either surgical option.

Effectiveness of extended antibiotic prophylaxis in implant-based breast reconstruction surgery: A meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Considerable research has been carried out on the postoperative benefits of extended antibiotic prophylaxis (EAP) in different surgical contexts, generating various results regarding its effectiveness. Some studies indicate positive outcomes, whereas others indicate no significant advantages. Our approach involves conducting a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to provide a more nuanced understanding of the role of extended antibiotic use because of the lack of a consistent consensus. METHODS: A thorough search of the Cochrane Library, Embase, and MEDLINE electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies. The metafor package in R software was used for meta-analysis. We collected risk ratios (RRs) for surgical site infection (SSI) in the EAP versus non-EAP groups from the included studies to assess the effects of EAP on reducing the risk of SSI. The meta-analysis used a random-effects model, and effect sizes were presented with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: Fourteen studies, involving 12,572 patients who underwent implant-based reconstruction postmastectomy, were included. Pooling the results of the studies that used EAP until drain removal revealed no protective effect of EAP against SSI risk (RR = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.60-1.18). Similarly, our analysis revealed no significant benefit of EAP in studies where EAP was not contingent on drain removal (RR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.46-1.07). CONCLUSIONS: EAP administration did not decrease the incidence of SSI in individuals undergoing implant-based breast reconstruction surgery postmastectomy.

Purse-String DIEPplasty: A Technique to Improve Aesthetic Outcome of Autologous Breast Reconstruction.

The purse-string DIEPplasty technique is a method to improve aesthetic outcomes in breast reconstruction using deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) free flaps. Traditionally, DIEP flaps, harvested from the lower abdomen, take on a triangular shape that can lead to sub-optimal aesthetic outcomes with occasionally poor breast projection, irregular contours, or minimal upper pole fullness. The purse-string DIEPplasty technique addresses these issues by using a 0 Polydioxanone continuous purse-string suture through the Scarpa's fascia to modify the harvested flap's shape before inset, giving it a more round base and a central dome-like projection similar to an implant. This method mimics the shape of a breast implant, enhancing the flap's projection, volumetric efficiency, and overall shape, leading to a reconstructed breast with improved aesthetic qualities. This technique represents a potential advancement in reconstructive breast surgery, aiming to reduce the extent of revision procedures and improve patient satisfaction. Further research, however, is needed to validate its effectiveness over time and assess potential complications.Level of Evidence IV 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 .

Tissue perfusion in DIEP flaps using Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography, Hyperspectral imaging, and Thermal imaging.

Flap necrosis continues to occur in skin free flap autologous breast reconstruction. Therefore, we investigated the benefits of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) using quantitative parameters for the objective, perioperative evaluation of flap perfusion. In addition, we investigated the feasibility of hyperspectral (HSI) and thermal imaging (TI) for postoperative flap monitoring. A single-center, prospective observational study was performed on 15 patients who underwent deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction (n=21). DIEP-flap perfusion was evaluated using ICGA, HSI, and TI using a standardized imaging protocol. The ICGA perfusion curves and derived parameters, HSI extracted oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) and deoxyhemoglobin (deoxyHb) values, and flap temperatures from TI were analyzed and correlated to the clinical outcomes. Post-hoc quantitative analysis of intraoperatively collected data of ICGA application accurately distinguished between adequately and insufficiently perfused DIEP flaps. ICG perfusion curves identified the lack of arterial inflow (n=2) and occlusion of the venous outflow (n=1). In addition, a postoperatively detected partial flap epidermolysis could have been predicted based on intraoperative quantitative ICGA data. During postoperative monitoring, HSI was used to identify impaired perfusion areas within the DIEP flap based on deoxyHb levels. The results of this study showed a limited added value of TI. Quantitative, post-hoc analysis of ICGA data produced objective and reproducible parameters that enabled the intraoperative detection of arterial and venous congested DIEP flaps. HSI appeared to be a promising technique for postoperative flap perfusion assessment. A diagnostic accuracy study is needed to investigate ICGA and HSI parameters in real-time and demonstrate their clinical benefit.

Postmastectomy radiotherapy in breast reconstruction: Current controversies and trends.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) is an essential component of combined therapy for early-stage, high-risk breast cancer. Breast reconstruction (BR) is often considered for patients with breast cancer who have undergone mastectomy. There has been a considerable amount of discussion about the optimal approach to combining PMRT with BR in the treatment of breast cancer. PMRT may increase the risk of complications and prevent good aesthetic results after BR, while BR may increase the complexity of PMRT and the radiation dose to surrounding normal tissues. The purpose of this review is to give a broad overview and summary of the current controversies and trends in PMRT and BR in the context of the most recent literature available.

Postoperative outcomes of minimally invasive versus conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy with prosthesis breast reconstruction in breast cancer: a meta-analysis.

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor worldwide, and mastectomy remains the primary strategy for treating early stage breast cancer. However, the complication rates, surgical variables, and oncologic safety of minimally invasive nipple-sparing mastectomy (MINSM) have not been fully addressed. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs that compared MINSM with conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy (CNSM), both followed by Prosthesis Breast Reconstruction (PBR). The main outcomes observed included overall complications, (Grade III) complications, skin and nipple necrosis, wound dehiscence, infection, seroma, hematoma, implant loss, and oncologic safety (positive margins and recurrence). Secondary outcomes included operation time, blood loss, hospital stay, cost-effectiveness, and patient satisfaction. Binary and continuous variables were compared using odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 10 studies involving 2,166 patients were included. There were no statistically significant differences between MINSM and CNSM in terms of skin necrosis, wound dehiscence, infection, seroma, hematoma, implant loss, or oncologic safety. However, MINSM significantly reduced overall complications (OR = 0. 74, 95% CI [0. 58, 0. 94], p = 0. 01) and (Grade III) complications (OR = 0. 47, 95% CI [0. 31, 0. 71], p = 0. 0003). Nipple necrosis events were also significantly reduced in the MINSM group (OR = 0. 49, 95% CI [0. 30, 0. 80], p = 0. 005). Patient satisfaction improved notably in the MINSM group. Additionally, compared with the CNSM group, the MINSM group had longer operating times (MD = 46. 88, 95% CI [19. 55, 74. 21], p = 0. 0008) and hospital stays (MD = 1. 39, 95% CI [0. 65, 2. 12], p < 0. 001), while intraoperative blood loss was significantly reduced (MD = -29. 05, 95% CI [-36. 20, -21. 90], p < 0. 001). Compared with CNSM, MINSM offers advantages in reducing complications and intraoperative blood loss, as well as improving aesthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction. Therefore, MINSM may become a viable option for breast surgery. Nevertheless, a long-term evaluation of the oncologic safety of this approach is necessary to ensure its efficacy and safety for patients.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction by prepectoral implant for the management of giant phyllodes tumors: A case series.

Phyllodes tumor is an uncommon breast neoplasm that is present in variable sizes. Giant phyllodes are those larger than 10 cm in diameter. Clinically, giant phyllodes tumors present as a visible, rapidly growing mass distorting the breast contour. Such tumors with large size and rapid growth rate suggest a phyllode diagnosis of fibroadenoma. Planning a standard treatment strategy for these tumors is quite challenging. While adequate surgical excision with tumor-free resection margins is the standard of care for most giant phyllodes cases, borderline and malignant giant phyllodes tumors might require wider resections given their high recurrence rates. Some authors described total mastectomy as the treatment option for giant borderline and malignant phyllodes to obtain wide, clear margins. Between March 2022 and September 2023, our surgical oncology department presented and operated on three cases of giant phyllodes. They underwent a nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction using pre-pectoral silicone implants. We think that with such a procedure, we can benefit from the wide, safe margins of mastectomy that have been proven to decrease local recurrence rates while considering the aesthetic outcome.

The Reconstructive Metaverse - Collaboration in Real-Time Shared Mixed Reality Environments for Microsurgical Reconstruction.

Plastic surgeons routinely use 3D-models in their clinical practice, from 3D-photography and surface imaging to 3D-segmentations from radiological scans. However, these models continue to be viewed on flattened 2D screens that do not enable an intuitive understanding of 3D-relationships and cause challenges regarding collaboration with colleagues. The Metaverse has been proposed as a new age of applications building on modern Mixed Reality headset technology that allows remote collaboration on virtual 3D-models in a shared physical-virtual space in real-time. We demonstrate the first use of the Metaverse in the context of reconstructive surgery, focusing on preoperative planning discussions and trainee education. Using a HoloLens headset with the Microsoft Mesh application, we performed planning sessions for 4 DIEP-flaps in our reconstructive metaverse on virtual patient-models segmented from routine CT angiography. In these sessions, surgeons discuss perforator anatomy and perforator selection strategies whilst comprehensively assessing the respective models. We demonstrate the workflow for a one-on-one interaction between an attending surgeon and a trainee in a video featuring both viewpoints as seen through the headset. We believe the Metaverse will provide novel opportunities to use the 3D-models that are already created in everyday plastic surgery practice in a more collaborative, immersive, accessible, and educational manner.

Prognosis of isolated locoregional recurrence after early breast cancer with immediate breast reconstruction surgery: a retrospective multi­institutional study.

BACKGROUND: The prognosis in patients with breast cancer with isolated locoregional recurrence (ILRR) without simultaneous distant metastases after immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) remains unknown. We aimed to investigate the prognosis in this patient population. METHODS: This multi-institutional retrospective observational study evaluated 3295 patients with primary breast cancer who underwent IBR at 12 Japanese medical facilities between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2016. The outcome measures were the prognostic factors for ILRR after IBR, 5-year distant metastasis-free interval (DMFI), and 5-year overall survival (OS). RESULTS: Mastectomy or skin-sparing mastectomy was performed in 3295 patients. ILRR occurred in 70 patients, and the median observation period from ILRR diagnosis was 39.3 months. Of the 70 patients, 9 (12.9%) had axillary lymph node recurrence (ALNR) at the time of ILRR diagnosis. The 5-year DMFI and OS rates after ILRR were 92.4% and 91.2%, respectively. Pathological lymph node metastasis at primary surgery (P = 0.041) and ALNR (P = 0.022) at ILRR were significantly associated with DMFI in the univariate analysis. ALNR was the only independent prognostic factor in the multivariate analysis (P = 0.041). Post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT; P = 0.022) and ALNR (P = 0.043) were significantly associated with OS in the univariate analysis, and both PMRT (P = 0.010) and ALNR (P = 0.028) were independent prognostic factors in the multivariate analysis for OS. CONCLUSIONS: Although patients with breast cancer who had ILRR after IBR have favorable prognosis, ALNR may lead to poor prognosis. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report the prognosis of these patients.

Impact of immediate breast reconstruction on perioperative therapy: insights from a Japanese Nationwide Registry.

BACKGROUND: Immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) is a common oncoplastic procedure used in breast cancer surgery. This study aims to investigate compliance with prosthetic breast reconstruction guidelines and its impact on perioperative treatment. METHODS: We reviewed data from the National Clinical Database-Breast Cancer Registry between January 2019 and December 2020. We compared perioperative treatment implementation between the IBR and non-IBR groups by subtype matching for age, menopausal status, T stage, N stage, and histology. RESULTS: A total of 8,860 patients with breast cancer who underwent IBR (6,075 breast prostheses, 2,492 autologous tissues, and 293 others) were identified. The compliance rate with the guidelines for prosthetic breast reconstruction was 97.7%. After matching, chemotherapy for luminal A-like diseases was significantly less frequent in the IBR group than in the non-IBR group (16.3% vs 20.5%, p < 0.001), and radiotherapy was less frequent in luminal A-like and HER2-positive patients (7.2% vs 9.0%, p = 0.010 and 7.1% vs 11.4%, p = 0.005, respectively). Among the 1-3 node-positive cases, fewer patients with prosthetic IBR received radiotherapy than those without IBR (15.7% vs 26.4%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Prosthetic breast reconstruction was performed with strict adherence to the Japanese guidelines. The implementation rates of chemotherapy and radiotherapy were lower in the specific IBR group than those in the non-IBR group. Therefore, large-scale, long-term follow-up data are required.

Post-mastectomy radiation therapy after breast reconstruction: from historic dogmas to practical expert agreements based on a large literature review of surgical and radiation therapy considerations.

Breast reconstruction (BR) after mastectomy is important to consider for a woman's body image enhancement and psychological well-being. Although post-mastectomy radiation (PMRT) significantly improves the outcome of patients with high-risk breast cancer (BC), PMRT after BR may affect cosmetic outcomes and may compromise the original goal of improving quality of life (QoL). With the lack of practical guidelines, it seems essential to work on a consensus and provide some "expert agreements" to offer patients the best option for PMRT after BR. We report a global "expert agreement" that results from a critical review of the literature on BR and PMRT during the 6th international multidisciplinary breast conference in March 2023.

Three-Dimensional Printing in Breast Reconstruction: Current and Promising Applications.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is dramatically improving breast reconstruction by offering customized and precise interventions at various stages of the surgical process. In preoperative planning, 3D imaging techniques, such as computer-aided design, allow the creation of detailed breast models for surgical simulation, optimizing surgical outcomes and reducing complications. During surgery, 3D printing makes it possible to customize implants and precisely shape autologous tissue flaps with customized molds and scaffolds. This not only improves the aesthetic appearance, but also conforms to the patient's natural anatomy. In addition, 3D printed scaffolds facilitate tissue engineering, potentially favoring the development and integration of autologous adipose tissue, thus avoiding implant-related complications. Postoperatively, 3D imaging allows an accurate assessment of breast volume and symmetry, which is crucial in assessing the success of reconstruction. The technology is also a key educational tool, enhancing surgeon training through realistic anatomical models and surgical simulations. As the field evolves, the integration of 3D printing with emerging technologies such as biodegradable materials and advanced imaging promises to further refine breast reconstruction techniques and outcomes. This study aims to explore the various applications of 3D printing in breast reconstruction, addressing current challenges and future opportunities.

Combined perforator flaps for total breast reconstruction-a narrative review and insights from massive weight loss cases.

Background and Objective: Perforator flaps have revolutionized autologous breast reconstruction, introducing both free and pedicled options as well as the potential for combining flaps. These versatile techniques can be utilized in massive weight loss (MWL) patients, effectively addressing both functional and aesthetic challenges by using their excess skin. This review aims to explore literature on combined pedicled and free perforator flaps for total breast reconstruction, and share our own experience in the field. Methods: A PubMed search up to June 2023 employed Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms such as (("combined") OR ("stacked") OR ("conjoined") AND ("perforator flaps")) AND ("breast reconstruction"). Publications in English and Scandinavian languages were manually screened for relevance, and supplemental sources were also reviewed. Key Content and Findings: Limited studies exist on using combined pedicled and free flaps for total breast reconstruction, although combined free flaps are more common. Perforators around the breast base, offer multiple flap options for single or combined use. In our series of 10 women, four underwent total breast reconstruction with a combination of flip-over internal mammary artery perforator (IMAP) flap and thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flap. Another subset of four, who were MWL patients, received combined TDAP and superior epigastric artery perforator (SEAP) flaps, along with body contouring procedures such as upper body lifts and vertical abdominoplasties, addressing excess skin and improving silhouette. One remaining MWL patient had deflated breasts restored using TDAP and SEAP flaps, along with an upper and lower body lift and vertical abdominoplasty. The last MWL patient underwent a risk-reducing mastectomy, also reconstructed with TDAP and SEAP flaps, and received an upper body lift and vertical abdominoplasty. Conclusions: Combined perforator flap techniques for combined body contouring and breast reconstruction seems safe and especially suitable for MWL patients. They offer a surgical alternative merging body contouring and breast reconstruction in cases where free flap procedures seem less favorable due to skin laxity and deflation of donor sites. However, limited literature on the topic calls for further studies.

Novel Treatment of Pyoderma Gangrenosum With Porcine-Derived Extracellular Matrix Following Bilateral Latissimus Dorsi Breast Reconstruction: A Case Report.

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare disease characterized by ulcerative cutaneous lesions that can occur postoperatively and is often associated with autoimmune disorders. PG is diagnosed by excluding other conditions that can cause ulcerations, such as infections, which may also result in immunosuppressive treatment delays and suboptimal wound care. Operative debridement of wounds has traditionally been avoided in the acute setting secondary to pathergy. This article presents a case of extensive breast PG that was successfully treated with surgical debridement, porcine-derived extracellular matrix, and negative pressure wound therapy while on systemic immunosuppressive therapy.

The impact of the new ESTRO-ACROP target volume delineation guidelines for postmastectomy radiotherapy after implant-based breast reconstruction on breast complications.

The European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology-Advisory Committee in Radiation Oncology Practice (ESTRO-ACROP) updated a new target volume delineation guideline for postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) after implant-based reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the impact on breast complications with the new guideline compared to the conventional guidelines. In total, 308 patients who underwent PMRT after tissue expander or permanent implant insertion from 2016 to 2021 were included; 184 received PMRT by the new ESTRO-ACROP target delineation (ESTRO-T), and 124 by conventional target delineation (CONV-T). The endpoints were major breast complications (infection, necrosis, dehiscence, capsular contracture, animation deformity, and rupture) requiring re-operation or re-hospitalization and any grade ≥2 breast complications. With a median follow-up of 36.4 months, the cumulative incidence rates of major breast complications at 1, 2, and 3 years were 6.6%, 10.3%, and 12.6% in the ESTRO-T group, and 9.7%, 15.4%, and 16.3% in the CONV-T group; it did not show a significant difference between the groups (p = 0.56). In multivariable analyses, target delineation is not associated with the major complications (sHR = 0.87; p = 0.77). There was no significant difference in any breast complications (3-year incidence, 18.9% vs. 23.3%, respectively; p = 0.56). Symptomatic RT-induced pneumonitis was developed in six (3.2%) and three (2.4%) patients, respectively. One local recurrence occurred in the ESTRO-T group, which was within the ESTRO-target volume. The new ESTRO-ACROP target volume guideline did not demonstrate significant differences in major or any breast complications, although it showed a tendency of reduced complication risks. As the dosimetric benefits of normal organs and comparable oncologic outcomes have been reported, further analyses with long-term follow-up are necessary to evaluate whether it could be connected to better clinical outcomes.

Risk of Bleeding Versus Venous Thromboembolism After Surgery for Breast Cancer: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Patients who undergo surgery for breast cancer are at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding, which can lead to significant consequences on outcomes. This study examined factors related to VTE and bleeding risk in breast cancer surgery, with and without reconstruction. We also investigated the relationship between operative time and resident involvement on bleeding and VTE risk. METHODS: Using the ACS-NSQIP database, patients who underwent mastectomy, implant, pedicled, or free flap reconstruction from 2005 to 2021 were identified. Resident involvement was available from 2007 to 2010. We fitted two logistic regressions to model the log odds of bleeding occurrence and VTE as linear functions of procedure type, controlling for age, body mass index, and comorbidities. RESULTS: Implant reconstruction had significantly reduced 30-d incidence of bleeding, compared to those who underwent transverse rectus abdominus muscle flap (P < 0.001). Free flap was associated with a significant increase in bleeding but not VTE risk (P < 0.001; P = 0.132). Increase in operative time significantly increased the risk of bleeding and VTE (P < 0.001). For surgeries with resident involvement coded, there was no significantly increased risk of bleeding or VTE (P = 0.600; P = 0.766). CONCLUSIONS: Implant reconstruction remains the procedure with the lowest risk of both bleeding and VTE. Free flap reconstruction did not show a significantly increased risk of VTE, potentially expanding reconstruction options for patients previously excluded from autologous reconstruction. Surgeons should be mindful of operative time, with re-evaluation of risk factors with each additional hour of surgery, irrespective of reconstruction type. Resident involvement in surgeries should continue to be encouraged by faculty.

Noninvasive Real-Time Assessment of Nipple-Areola Complex Perfusion Using Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging in Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Nipple-areola complex (NAC) necrosis is a major complication for breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy. Although intraoperative indocyanine green angiography helps to assess the viability of tissue, the imaging could be conservative which may lead to aggressive resection. The plastic surgeons are eager to know the perfusion changes of NAC throughout the perioperative period. METHODS: In this prospective cohort study, the authors enrolled patients who underwent NSM and immediate direct-to-implant breast reconstruction. All patients underwent laser speckle contrast imaging before surgery, immediately after mastectomy, after implant placement, and 24 h and 72 h after surgery. RESULTS: A total of 94 breasts were analyzed, including 64 breasts healed with viable NAC and 30 breasts with NAC necrosis. In viable NACs, the average blood supply decreased to 56% after NSM and 42% after reconstruction, then recovered to 68% and 80% at 24-h and 72-h post-operation. In necrotic NACs, the average blood supply decreased to 33% after NSM and 24% after reconstruction, and partial perfusion recovery was also recorded at 24-h (31%) and 72-h (37%) post-operation. The cutoff value for predicting NAC viability is 40% after NSM and 25% after implant placement. CONCLUSIONS: The study quantified the NAC perfusion changes during the perioperative period. NAC perfusion decreased significantly after NSM and would be the lowest after the end of breast reconstruction. Viable NACs displayed more perfusion during the operation and showed significant nipple revascularization after breast reconstruction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: 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 .