Delaying Implant-Based Mammary Reconstruction After Radiotherapy Does Not Decrease Capsular Contracture: An In Vitro Study

The most common complication of irradiated implant-based mammary reconstruction is fibrosis and capsular contracture. The indications for post mastectomy adjuvant radiotherapy have significantly broadened. Facing an increased number of patients who will require radiotherapy, most guidelines recommend delaying reconstruction after radiotherapy to prevent long-term fibrotic complications. Does radiotherapy permanently alter cellular properties which will adversely affect implant-based reconstruction? If so, is there a benefit in delaying reconstruction after radiotherapy?Our in-vitro model simulates two implant-based mammary reconstruction approaches: the irradiated implant and the delayed implant reconstruction beneath healthy un-irradiated tissue post radiotherapy.

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