Satisfaction and results of the subareolar incision as treatment for gynecomastia in adolescents: experience of two centers.

Gynecomastia is a benign glandular proliferation that can affect adolescents causing significant psychological discomfort. Generally, it is idiopathic but underlying endocrinological conditions must be excluded. Different surgical techniques are available, the surgical correction with subareolar incision achieves the goal of satisfactory aesthetic result for patients. We studied all patients treated for gynecomastia in two centers of pediatric surgery. After collection of a detailed family history, we evaluated the presence of early onset of puberty, congenital abnormalities of the external genitalia, use of drugs, eating habits and the presence of genetic disorders. Laboratory tests and ultrasound were made to exclude endocrinological disorders. The surgical treatment was performed by a subareolar incision with gland and adipose tissue excision. A Body - Q chest module to evaluate patient satisfaction has been proposed to everyone before and after surgery. 47 adolescents with median age of 15 years were surgically treated. Three presented endocrinological disorders. Grade of gynecomastia for surgery was: III in 40 patients and IIb in 7 patients. Postoperative complications occurred in 5 patients. The Body - Q chest module was completed by 42 patients and showed good results for all points analyzed, except for social feelings. Gynecomastia in adolescents can be surgically treated with subareolar incision, reporting good aesthetic results and low incidence of complications. Specific tests are useful to assess patient satisfaction.

A qualitative study on the experiences of women undergoing surgery for developmental breast asymmetry.

BACKGROUND: Developmental breast asymmetry (DBA) is a largely underreported condition where the natural growth of one breast is smaller than the other. While some degree of asymmetry or difference in size and shape is present in most women, DBA can result in more profound differences that can impact a woman's psychosocial well-being. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to better understand the experiences of women living with DBA, their experiences seeking treatment, and their reconstructive surgical journey and outcomes. DESIGN: This was a qualitative study involving in-depth, one-on-one semi-structured interviews with women diagnosed with DBA. METHODS: Participants were women seeking treatment for DBA through the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit at Flinders Medical Centre, a tertiary healthcare centre in Adelaide, South Australia. Interviews were recorded digitally, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. RESULTS: Fourteen interviews were conducted with 14 women; 13 women had completed their reconstruction and 1 was undergoing reconstruction at the time of their interview. Interviews highlighted the significant psychosocial impact of DBA, the different experiences in seeking help for DBA, the information received or lack thereof, the need for medical and social support throughout the surgical process, and the varied satisfaction with surgical outcomes. CONCLUSION: This study highlighted the subjective experiences of women who have grown up with DBA, improving our understanding of the significant psychosocial impact of DBA. Not all participants experienced post-operative improvements in psychosocial well-being due to surgical complications or unmet expectations. This study also demonstrated the need to raise awareness about DBA and the importance of additional medical and social support for women throughout their surgical journey.

[Indocyanine green is an integral part of breast reconstructive surgery using perforator flaps]. / Indotsianin zelenyi ­ neot"emlemaya chast' rekonstruktivnoi khirurgii molochnoi zhelezy s ispol'zovaniem perforantnykh loskutov.

INTRODUCTION: The use of allotransplants for breast reconstruction in surgical stage of the the breast cancer treatment requires tissue perfusion control. The aim of the study was to analyze the effectiveness of using indocyanine green as a drug for determining the perfusion of perforant flaps in breast reconstructive surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective series of observations of 27 breast reconstructions using autologous transplants is presented: 19 reconstructions with DIEP-flap, 2 with SIEA-flap, 5 with TD-flap; 1 with thoracoepigastric flap. Intraoperative fluorescence angiography was performed using a Stryker device (5900 Optical Court, USA). The intensity of the flap fluorescence was recorded after intravenous bolus injection of 7.5 mg indocyanine green. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The optimal time interval from the moment of drug administration to indicative visualization of flap perfusion was 55-60 seconds. In all patients, the area of insufficient blood flow was excised within intensively blood-supplied tissues, according to mapping data with the indocyanine green. With free transplant of flaps postoperative complications during follow-up were recorded in 1 (4.8%) case (marginal necrosis), which is associated with insufficient compression of auxiliary vessels (violation of the dominant vessel contrast technique). With non-free transplant of flaps no complications were detected in the postoperative period. CONCLUSIONS: Indocyanine green allows to prevent necrotic changes and reduce the rehabilitation period. The optimal time for the indicative visualization of flap perfusion was 55-60 seconds. The use of indocyanine green in free transplant of flaps ensured a postoperative period without complications in 20 (95.2%) cases, in non-free flap transplantation - in 6 (100%) cases.

DIEP backlog: Mission impossible?

The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused global challenges, including the restriction of surgical options for women with breast cancer. Autologous reconstruction availability has still not returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. This study aimed to collect data about waiting lists for autologous breast reconstruction and is the first of its kind. A total of 31 units were approached and asked to complete a study specific questionnaire. In total, there are at least 2255 patients on a waiting list, which equates to a 2-year and 5-month backlog at the current level of provision, without the inclusion of new referrals. Alarmingly, 40 women reportedly developed breast cancer whilst on the waiting list. The impact of COVID-19 has been significant, revealing national inequity in reconstruction provision and long waiting lists. Recommendations include increasing theatre capacity, optimising plastic surgeons' job plans to prevent waiting lists from growing as well as training more surgeons in autologous reconstruction.

Effectiveness of the proximal medial branch in DIEP flaps for breast reconstruction using Hartrampf zone IV.

BACKGROUND: When performing breast reconstruction using a deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) perforator (DIEP) flap, including Hartrampf zone IV, the bipedicled DIEP flap has been argued to be necessary to ensure stable perfusion. However, a proximal medial branch (PMB), which is the most proximal perforator of DIEA, may make it possible to obtain adequate perfusion in a unilateral DIEP flap. This study aimed to clarify the detailed anatomical characteristics of PMB and its potential clinical applications in breast reconstruction. METHODS: This retrospective study was conducted on breast reconstruction using the DIEP flap between May 2020 and July 2023. Data on PMB anatomy were collected from preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography, and contralateral perfusion of the flap was estimated using intraoperative indocyanine green angiography. RESULTS: PMB was present in approximately 85% of the cases, arising near the lateral border of the rectus abdominis, branching caudomedially in more than half of the cases, and perforating 2.3 cm laterally and 8.8 cm caudally, on average, from the umbilicus. The average perfusion area of zones II and IV significantly expanded to 96.5% and 74.2%, respectively, when PMB was included in the DIEP flap, and 9 of 22 cases showed contrast extending to the entire zone IV. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the DIEP flap with PMB is a good option for substantial-volume breast reconstruction. When utilizing PMB, it is important to consider its specific anatomy, location of the main perforator, and pedicle length.

Disparities in pathways to reduction mammaplasty: A single institution review of 425 women with macromastia.

BACKGROUND: Reduction mammaplasty improves the quality of life by providing functional and aesthetic benefits to women with macromastia. This study contributes to the existing literature on socioeconomic and clinical barriers to referral for plastic surgery procedures by focusing specifically on reduction mammaplasty. METHODS: Patients with macromastia were identified via a chart review in a single institution from 2021-2022. The treatment pathway for each patient was characterized by reception of referral, completion of plastic surgery consultation, and eventual reception of surgery. After controlling for clinical covariates, multivariate logistic regression was applied to quantify the independent impact of race, insurance, and language status on the completion of surgery (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The final patient cohort included 425 women with macromastia. Among the 151 patients who were first seen by a primary care physician, 64 (42%) completed an initial plastic surgery consultation. Among all patients, 160 (38%) eventually underwent reduction mammaplasty. Multivariate regression predictions indicated a lower likelihood of completing breast reduction surgery in patients with current smoking history (OR: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01-0.59) and higher body mass index (BMI) (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90-0.97) (p < 0.05). Minority race and ethnicity, private insurance status, and primary language status were not significant predictors of this outcome (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the socioeconomic variables were not independent predictors of breast reduction surgery completion. However, the association of minority race and ethnicity and nonprivate insurance status with the most common reasons for breast reduction deferral suggest an indirect influence of socioeconomic status on the treatment pathway.

Perfusion area versus volume of the DIEP flap: A multivariable analysis of perforator and flap characteristics for estimation of perfusion area and volume.

BACKGROUND: The extent of perfusion of a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap is a primary concern for surgeons. This study aimed to determine whether the flap area or volume can be estimated using perforator and flap characteristics. METHODS: Intraoperative flap perfusion was assessed using indocyanine green angiography in patients who underwent DIEP flap breast reconstruction between November 2018 and February 2023. The area perfused by a single dominant perforator was delineated on the surface of the flap and measured using the ImageJ software. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to estimate the 'perfusion ratio,' defined as the perfused area divided by the total flap area. Potential predictor variables included flap size (cm2), flap thickness (mm), perforator diameter (mm), perforator rows (medial/lateral), vertical location of perforator (at or above/below the umbilicus), and perforator eccentricity (vertical distance from upper flap margin to perforator, cm). RESULTS: In total, 101 patients were included in this analysis. The mean 'perfusion ratio' was 67.8% ± 11.5%, predicted by perforator diameter (p = 0.022) and vertical location below umbilicus (p < 0.001) with positive correlations and negatively correlated with flap thickness (p = 0.003) in the multivariable analysis. Both perfusion area and weight were predicted by perforator diameter, vertical location of perforator, flap size, and flap thickness (p < 0.001). The coefficient of determination (adjusted R2) for prediction of perfusion weight was higher than that for the perfusion area (75.5% vs. 69.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Flap volume, rather than area, is determined by a perforator of a given diameter and location.

The current diagnosis and treatment strategy of breast cancer based on multicentre retrospective data in Shaanxi province.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a common malignancy, and early detection coupled with standardized treatment is crucial for patient survival and recovery. This study aims to scrutinize the current state of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Shaanxi province, providing valuable insights into the local practices and outcomes. METHODS: We selected 25 hospitals that typically represent the current diagnosis and treatment strategy of breast cancer in Shaanxi (a province in northwest China). The questionnaire comprised sections on fundamental information, outpatient consultations, breast-conserving surgery, neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy, sentinel lymph node biopsy, breast reconstruction surgery. RESULTS: A total of 6665 breast cancer operations were performed in these 25 hospitals in 2021. The overall proportion of breast-conserving surgery (BCS) is 23.6%. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the annual volume of breast cancer surgery and the implementation rate of BCS (P = 0.004). A total of 2882 cases of neoadjuvant treatment accounted for 43.24% of breast cancer patients treated with surgery in 2017. Hospitals in Xi'an performed more neoadjuvant therapy for patients with breast cancer compared to other districts (P = 0.008). There was a significantly positive correlation between outpatient visits and the implementation rate of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) (P = 0.005). 14 hospitals in Shaanxi performed reconstructive surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Breast conserving surgery, adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy and sentinel lymph node biopsy in Shaanxi province have reached the China's average level. Moreover, hospitals in Xi 'an have surpassed this average. However, a disparity is observed in the development of breast reconstruction surgery when compared to top-tier hospitals.

Severe capsular contracture in a patient with a history of multiple malignancies - Hematoma or neoplasm recurrence?: A case report.

RATIONALE: Complications associated with breast implants pose a significant obstacle to improving the quality of life for patients undergoing implant-based breast reconstruction. Due to the intricate nature of their presentation, diagnosis often becomes challenging and perplexing. Herein, we present a case report detailing the diagnostic and therapeutic processes employed in managing implant-related complications in a patient with multiple malignancies who underwent immediate breast reconstruction following mastectomy. PATENT CONCERNS: The patient, a 48-year-old woman, presented with severe pain and hardening in her left breast. She had previously undergone nipple-sparing mastectomy followed by immediate implant-based breast reconstruction 3 years ago. DIAGNOSES: Upon admission, we suspected a simple diagnosis of capsular contracture. However, upon investigation, she had a medical history of colon cancer, breast cancer, and acute B-lymphoblastic leukemia. Furthermore, she recently experienced nipple hemorrhage. INTERVENTIONS: Considering her clinical manifestations, we postulated the possibility of tumor recurrence along with potential presence of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. The situation took a new turn, as diagnostic imaging techniques including breast MRI, and ultrasound revealed indications of potential prosthesis rupture and periprosthetic infection. OUTCOMES: Ultimately, en bloc capsulectomy with implant removal was performed, revealing no evidence of implant rupture or infection but rather indicating delayed hematoma formation. LESSONS: An accurate diagnosis of complications associated with breast prosthesis reconstruction is crucial for effective treatment. The examination and treatment processes employed in this case offer valuable insights toward achieving a more precise diagnosis of prosthesis-related complications, particularly in patients with complex medical histories.

Strategically shifting paradigms: the new era of DIEP flaps with minimally invasive mastectomy: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The free deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap is the gold standard in autologous breast reconstruction. Asian patients often present with a smaller body mass index with relatively insufficient tissue. To restore appropriate symmetry, a larger flap inset ratio must be transferred. Supercharging of the second vein or inclusion of bilateral pedicle is commonly required. Current paradigm shifts in mastectomy has also resulted in more minimally invasive surgeries (MIS) espousing smaller lateral incisions, leading to a significant change in available recipient vessels. This study aimed to demonstrate our experience in changing strategies of DIEP flaps following the evolution of mastectomy techniques. METHODS: Between October 2008 and March 2022, retrospective data was gathered for 278 patients who underwent breast reconstruction surgery utilizing DIEP flaps by a single plastic surgeon. These patients were divided into two distinct groups based on their operation dates, with November 2018 marking a pivotal moment when the first MIS, including endoscopic-assisted and robot-assisted mastectomy, was introduced. RESULTS: A total of 278 patients were included. Bipedicle vessel utilization for flap supercharge saw a significant increase (15.9% vs. 7%, p < 0.001), while the use of the superior inferior epigastric vein (SIEV) decreased (5.1% vs. 17.1%, p = 0.01). Preceding MIS, SIEV was the primary choice for flap supercharge (96.0%, p < 0.001), whereas post-introduction, the contralateral DIEP pedicle gained prominence (75.9%, p < 0.001). There was also an increased utilization of thoracodorsal artery and lateral thoracic artery following MIS. CONCLUSION: These findings underscore the profound impact of MIS on the strategic choices made in DIEP flap-based breast reconstruction. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06321549).

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) With Exparel in Tissue Expander-based Breast Reconstruction Following Mastectomy.

BACKGROUND: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways have been widely shown to yield positive outcomes, including in plastic surgery. Our group has previously validated ERAS in our deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction population. OBJECTIVES: We evaluated whether the ERAS protocol and addition of liposomal bupivacaine affected patient outcomes at the time of mastectomy and first-stage tissue expander reconstruction. METHODS: All patients treated between July 2021 and May 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. The ERAS protocol was implemented in December 2021. Two patient groups were compared: pre-ERAS and ERAS. The ERAS protocol included use of liposomal bupivacaine in the pectoralis nerve block 1/2 planes. Primary outcomes were observed with postoperative length of stay and hospital narcotic use. RESULTS: Eighty-one patients were analyzed in this cohort. The pre-ERAS group was composed of 41 patients, the ERAS group was composed of 83 patients. Postoperative length of stay was significantly reduced in the ERAS group (1.7 pre-ERAS vs 1.1 ERAS, P = .0004). When looking at morphine equivalents during the hospital stay, the degree of narcotics in the recovery room was relatively similar. Average PACU pain morphine equivalents were 6.1 pre-ERAS vs 7.1 ERAS (P = .406). However, total hospital morphine equivalents were significantly lower in the ERAS group (65.0 pre-ERAS vs 26.2 ERAS, P = <.001). CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol with liposomal bupivacaine pectoralis 1/2 nerve blocks decreased postoperative opioid consumption and hospital length of stay in mastectomy patients undergoing tissue expander-based reconstruction.

Pre-operative chemoradiotherapy followed by mastectomy and breast reconstruction-A systematic review of clinical, oncological, reconstructive and aesthetic outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Pre-operative radiotherapy (PRT) and pre-operative chemoradiotherapy (PCRT) prior to mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction for locally advanced breast cancer have the potential to reduce radiation late-effects and expedite oncologic treatment. Recent feasibility work indicates that PCRT is safe and technically possible. Here, we present a systematic review of currently available data on clinical, oncological, reconstructive and aesthetic outcomes. METHODS: A prospectively registered search of Medline (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), EMCARE (Ovid) and CINAHL (EBSCO) databases was performed in August 2023. Clinical, oncological, reconstructive and aesthetic outcomes were appraised with risk of bias (ROBINS-I) and methodological quality determined (STROBE checklist) for each study. RESULTS: Twenty-two published articles (19 journal articles and 3 abstracts) were identified reporting the outcomes of 1258 patients with median follow-up between 19.0-212.4 months. Patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy in 20 studies. Rates of locoregional recurrence and overall survival ranged between 0-21.7% and 82.0%-98.3% respectively. Rates of flap loss or necrosis ranged from 0-7.6%. Rates of revisional procedures ranged between 1.9-35.3%. Patient-reported outcomes were reported in 7 studies and were mostly 'good' or 'excellent'. CONCLUSION: PRT and PCRT preceding mastectomy and breast reconstruction produce acceptable oncological outcomes with rates of surgical complication and reconstructive outcomes within normal limits, however, the majority of available studies are of low methodological quality and at high risk of bias. A pragmatic randomised trial comparing PRT versus PMRT in the setting of breast reconstruction is now urgently required to guide surgical practice.

Early post-operative outcome of pre-pectoral implant-based immediate total breast reconstruction with Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl™) mesh - low cost solution for a low-middle income country.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of breast cancer in Pakistan has been rising with approximately one third of these patients requiring mastectomy. Among breast reconstruction treatment options, the use of Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) for pre-pectoral breast implant surgery has proven effective with improved cosmetic outcome. However, due to high cost it cannot be regularly implemented in a developing country like Pakistan. An alternative to ADM, Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl™, Ethicon) mesh has been introduced in pre-pectoral breast reconstructive surgery which has shown to be almost 10 times lower in cost. We set out to determine the frequency of early postoperative complications when using Polyglactin 910 mesh for pre-pectoral implant-based breast reconstruction surgery. METHODS: A single centre, retrospective, chart review was conducted, and a total 28 women were included in the study. Thirty-two pre-pectoral implant-based mastectomies with Polyglactin 910 mesh were performed. Early post-operative outcomes (within 12 months of procedure) including duration of antibiotic use, post-operative infection, implant displacement, flap necrosis, seroma formation, wound dehiscence, hematoma formation, capsular contracture and reconstruction failure, were recorded. RESULTS: Only 4 (12.5%) women experienced early post-operative morbidity. One patient developed a wound dehiscence, which eventually led to reconstruction failure and removal of the implant. Another patient had seroma formation and flap necrosis. None of the patients developed postoperative implant displacement, hematoma formation or capsular contracture in the early post-operative period. CONCLUSION: This study reveals that early post-operative outcomes with Polyglactin 910 mesh in breast reconstructive surgery are few, thus making it a cost effective, reliable, and safe treatment option, especially in developing countries like Pakistan.

Current trends in breast cancer surgery.

The incidence of breast cancer has been increasing significantly over the past decades, while the mortality rate has, actually, been decreasing. Behind this favorable trend in the decrease in mortality are not only high-quality screening programs, but also undoubtedly advances in therapy, especially new methods in surgical treatment. The importance of oncoplastic approach integrating resection and reconstruction procedures is obvious. Our efforts continue to maximize breast-conserving therapy, which is being improved in parallel with the development of new localization methods of non-palpable lesions. Breast-conserving therapy indication spectrum is also increasing with the use of oncoplastic approach allowing the resection of a significant part of the mammary gland while achieving an acceptable cosmetic result. We improve guidelines for skin-sparing procedures and also possibilities and availability of breast reconstruction. Most popular is breast reconstruction with free abdominal flap transfer. However, due to such demanding complex procedure with limited availability, there is also a significant development of silicone-implant-based reconstruction or methods of fat transfer. Constant attention is focused on axillary surgery, now especially in cases of initial nodal involvement that responds favorably to neoadjuvant systemic treatment. Current findings indicate tendency to modify and differentiate surgical indications according to the tumor phenotype. Complex lymphedema prevention surgery, such as lymphatic mapping or restoring lymphatic flow via microsurgical lymphaticovenous anastomosis, can provide effective and long-term improvement and is challenging. Recently in the Czech Republic, we reopened the discussion about the optimal concentration of medical care in a smaller number of specialized breast centers, which we think is one of a number of steps on the constant path to improve medical results.

Syringomatous tumor of the nipple: a case report.

Syringomatous tumor of the nipple is a benign, locally infiltrative tumor. There are reports in the literature of tumor recurrence in cases of incomplete excision. Clinical and mammographic findings in syringomatous tumors are like those of breast carcinoma and the pathologist has a fundamental role in final tumor diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to report a case of syringoma located in the areolar region. A 33-year-old woman reported that she had noticed a nodule in her left areolar region 4 years previously (February 2019). A breast ultrasound was performed, detecting intraparenchymatous breast cysts. Surgical resection of the nodule was indicated although it was not performed. Two years later, in August 2021, the patient underwent a mastopexy with prosthesis inclusion. Histopathology study of the surgical specimen revealed a syringomatous tumor with positive margins. Thirteen (13) months after diagnosis (September 3, 2021 - October 16, 2022), the patient is doing well and receives clinical follow-up.

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.

Gothenburg Breast reconstruction (GoBreast) II protocol: a Swedish partially randomised patient preference, superiority trial comparing autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: Although breast reconstruction is an integral part of breast cancer treatment, there is little high-quality evidence to indicate which method is the most effective. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are generally thought to provide the most solid scientific evidence, but there are significant barriers to conducting RCTs in breast reconstruction, making both recruitment and achieving unbiased and generalisable results a challenge. The objective of this study is to compare implant-based and autologous breast reconstruction in non-irradiated patients. Moreover, the study aims to improve the evidence for trial decision-making in breast reconstruction. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The study design partially randomised patient preference trial might be a way to overcome the aforementioned challenges. In the present study, patients who consent to randomisation will be randomised to implant-based and autologous breast reconstruction, whereas patients with strong preferences will be able to choose the method. The study is designed as a superiority trial based on the patient-reported questionnaire BREAST-Q and 124 participants will be randomised. In the preference cohort, patients will be included until 62 participants have selected the least popular alternative. Follow-up will be 60 months. Embedded qualitative studies and within-trial economic evaluation will be performed. The primary outcome is patient-reported breast-specific quality of life/satisfaction, and the secondary outcomes are complications, factors affecting satisfaction and cost-effectiveness. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study has been approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (2023-04754-01). Results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presented at peer-reviewed scientific meetings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT06195865.

Chronic Pain Following Breast Reconstruction: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer survival rates have increased significantly, underscoring the importance of enhancing long-term health-related quality of life. Breast reconstruction following mastectomy has emerged as a common approach that contributes to improved health-related quality of life. Nonetheless, chronic pain following breast reconstruction is a prevalent issue that has a negative impact on overall well-being. METHODS: To examine recent findings on chronic pain after breast reconstruction and progress in pain management, we performed a review of the literature through independent searches using the MEDLINE database within NIH National Library of Medicine PubMed. RESULTS: The review suggested that autologous reconstruction causes chronic postsurgical pain, especially at specific donor sites, whereas implant-based reconstruction does not seem to increase the risk of chronic pain. Moreover, certain operational and patient factors are also associated with chronic pain. Appropriate pain management can reduce chronic pain and prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain. CONCLUSION: This scoping review evaluated the characteristics of long-term chronic pain after breast reconstruction. The findings provide patients with important treatment information and will assist with their decision on their preferred treatment.