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Background Some of the millions of women with silicone breast implants (SBIs) report a pattern of systemic complaints, known as ASIA syndrome. However, the association between these complaints and breast implants remains uncertain. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of complaints in women with breast implants and healthy controls, and to compare their health-related quality of life. Methods Four groups of subjects were requested to fill in a general and a diagnostic questionnaire, and the Short Form 36. Group 1 was recruited from the Dutch foundation for breast implant illness (BII). Two groups were recruited from Dutch hospitals, where they had been augmented or reconstructed with SBIs (group 2) or saline-filled and hydrogel implants (group 3). A control group without breast implants was recruited from friends of subjects from group 2. Results In total, 238 women completed the questionnaires. ASIA manifestations appeared in the majority of the respondents (72.3%-98.8%), with a latency period of 0 to 35 years. Adjusted for age, smoking, and comorbidities, typical symptoms only occurred significantly more frequently in group 1. The presence of a chronic disease was an independent predictor for ASIA syndrome. The health-related quality of life was lower in women with SBIs than in women without breast implants. Conclusions The adjusted prevalence of BII manifestations is not significantly higher in women with SBIs than in women without implants. The findings of this study suggest that results on BII are subject to selection bias. Further studies are needed to prove an association between self-reported complaints and SBIs. Level of Evidence: 2

Intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography has gained popularity and acceptance in many surgical fields for the real-time assessment of tissue perfusion. Although vasopressors have the potential to preclude an accurate assessment of tissue perfusion, there is a lack of literature with regards to its effect on ICG fluorescence angiography. An experimental porcine model was used to expose the small bowel for quantitative tissue perfusion assessment. Three increasing doses of norepinephrine infusion (0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 µg/kg/min) were administered intravenously over a 25-min interval. Time-to-peak fluorescence intensity (TTP) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included absolute fluorescence intensity and local capillary lactate (LCL) levels. Five large pigs (mean weight: 40.3 ± 4.24 kg) were included. There was no significant difference in mean TTP (in seconds) at baseline (4.23) as compared to the second (3.90), third (4.41), fourth (4.60), and fifth ICG assessment (5.99). As a result of ICG accumulation, the mean and the maximum absolute fluorescence intensity were significantly different as compared to the baseline assessment. There was no significant difference in LCL levels (in mmol/L) at baseline (0.74) as compared to the second (0.82), third (0.64), fourth (0.60), and fifth assessment (0.62). Increasing doses of norepinephrine infusion have no significant influence on bowel perfusion using ICG fluorescence angiography.

BACKGROUND The lateral thigh perforator flap, based on the tissue of the upper lateral thigh, is an excellent option for autologous breast reconstruction. The aim of this study was to introduce the technique to perform a nerve coaptation in lateral thigh perforator flap breast reconstruction and to analyze the results by comparing the sensory recovery of the reconstructed breast and donor site between innervated and noninnervated lateral thigh perforator flaps. METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted of patients who underwent an innervated or noninnervated lateral thigh perforator flap breast reconstruction between December of 2014 and August of 2018. Direct nerve coaptation was performed between a branch of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve and the anterior cutaneous branch of the intercostal nerve. Sensory testing was performed with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments to assess the sensation of the native skin, flap skin, and donor site during follow-up. RESULTS In total, 24 patients with 37 innervated lateral thigh perforator flaps and 18 patients with 26 noninnervated lateral thigh perforator flaps were analyzed (median follow-up, 17 and 15 months, respectively). Significantly lower mean monofilament values were found for the native skin (adjusted difference, -0.83; p = 0.011) and flap skin (adjusted difference, -1.11; p < 0.001) of the reconstructed breast in innervated compared to noninnervated flaps. For the donor site, no statistically significant differences were found between both groups. CONCLUSIONS Nerve coaptation in lateral thigh perforator flap breast reconstruction resulted in a significantly better sensory recovery of the reconstructed breast compared to noninnervated flaps. The data also suggest that harvesting a sensory nerve branch does not compromise the sensory recovery of the upper lateral thigh.

Background Concerns about the safety of silicone breast implants (SBIs) have existed for years, but a causal relation between systemic complaints and SBIs has not been proven. Nevertheless, some women are worried and even request explantation. Objectives This study aimed to review the explantation procedures performed, focusing on patient-reported symptoms preoperatively, the effect of explantation, and the effect of breast reconstruction on these symptoms. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed for patients who had undergone explantation between 2010 and 2020 at Maastricht University Medical Center. Patients who had undergone tissue expander removal, tissue expander–implant exchange, or direct implant exchange were excluded. Results More than half of the patients undergoing explantation reported complaints, mostly pain. Some 15% reported systemic complaints they believed were implant related. Breast implant illness (BII) was found to be the fifth most common indication for explantation (11.2%). A history of either allergies or implant rupture resulted in higher odds ratios of having BII (odd ratios, 2.1 and 2.1, respectively). Subjective improvement of BII after explantation was reported by about 60% of patients. Conclusions A relatively low prevalence of suggested BII exists among women undergoing explantation; 1 in 9 procedures were performed for this reason. Allergy and implant rupture may increase the likelihood of having BII. About 60% of BII patients experienced an improvement in their complaints after implant removal. Autologous breast reconstruction appears a good alternative. Prospective studies into health complaints and quality of life should be performed to confirm the effectiveness of explantation as a therapy for BII. Level of Evidence: 4

Background. Postoperative monitoring of deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps for breast reconstruction using noninvasive tissue oximetry enables timely recognition of vascular compromise. This may limit ischemic tissue damage, minimizing postoperative morbidity and healthcare costs. The aim of this review was to provide an economic analysis of tissue oximetry for postoperative monitoring of DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted utilizing PubMed and Embase. Articles reporting costs related to tissue oximetry following DIEP flap breast reconstruction, costs directly related to DIEP flap surgical procedure, and costs associated with postoperative complications were included. Risk of bias was assessed using different tools depending on study type. Results. Six articles were included. Four studies provided an overview of total costs associated with DIEP flap breast reconstruction; two studies focused on whether tissue oximetry could facilitate a decrease in hospital costs. Average overall costs for DIEP flap procedure were estimated at $28 000, with additional costs up to $37 530 in case of total flap failure. Tissue oximetry to monitor DIEP flaps could potentially save up to $1667 per procedure. Moreover, it might eliminate the need for specialized postoperative care. Conclusion. Tissue oximetry following DIEP flap breast reconstruction can potentially facilitate a decrease in hospital costs since its readings enable physicians to intervene in an early stage of tissue malperfusion, contributing to minimizing complications. Tissue oximetry may eliminate the need for specialized postoperative care. However, based on the current literature, no firm conclusions can yet be drawn regarding cost-effectiveness of standard implementation.

Background The gluteal region is one of the many alternative donor sites for autologous breast reconstruction. However, the harvest of the gluteal flap is rather difficult, and the major drawback of gluteal flaps has been the need for position changes for flap harvest and inset. A new approach of a gluteal flap is introduced, based on the septocutaneous perforators of the superior gluteal artery: the septocutaneous gluteal artery perforator (Sc-GAP) makeover flap. Methods A prospective study was performed in Maastricht University Medical Center between January 2018 and December 2019. Patients who underwent a Sc-GAP makeover flap breast reconstruction in the Maastricht University Medical Center and have had preoperative magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the abdomen between January 2018 and June 2019 were included. Results Nine patients underwent breast reconstruction with thirteen Sc-GAP makeover flaps, of which nine flaps were innervated. Indications were the abdomen not being available as a donor site (n = 4) or the flank region was preferred as a donor site by the patient (n = 5). The total operative time was 430 min on average (range 311–683). Mean flap weight was 638 g (range 370–1004) and the mean ischemia time was 53 ± 9.96 min. Coupler size used was 2.0–2.5 mm. All flaps survived. Conclusion The Sc-GAP makeover flap overcomes the disadvantages of the conventional gluteal flaps, especially by eliminating the need for position changes during the reconstruction procedure. It is a reliable flap that provides sufficient volume and good esthetic outcomes. Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

Background Patient satisfaction after breast reconstruction is dependent on both esthetics and functional outcomes. In an attempt to improve breast sensibility, a sensory nerve coaptation can be performed. The aim of this study was to objectify the sensory recovery in patients who, by chance, underwent bilateral autologous breast reconstruction with one innervated and one non-innervated flap. It must be emphasized that the intention was to coaptate the sensory nerves on both sides. Methods The cohort study was carried out in the Maastricht University Medical Center between August 2016 and August 2018. Patients were eligible if they underwent bilateral non-complex, autologous breast reconstruction with unilateral sensory nerve coaptation and underwent sensory measurements using Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments at 12 months of follow-up. Sensory outcomes were compared using t tests. Results A total of 15 patients were included, all contributing one innervated and one non-innervated flap. All patients had a follow-up of at least 12 months, but were measured at different follow-up points with a mean follow-up of 19 months. Sensory nerve coaptation was significantly associated with better sensation in the innervated breasts and showed better sensory recovery over time, compared to non-innervated breasts. Moreover, the protective sensation of the skin can be restored by sensory nerve coaptation. Conclusions The study demonstrated that sensory nerve coaptation leads to better sensation in the autologous reconstructed breast in patients who underwent bilateral breast reconstruction and, by chance, received unilateral sensory nerve coaptation.

Purpose With the BODY-Q, one can assess outcomes, such as satisfaction with appearance, in weight loss and body contouring patients using multiple scales. All scales can be used independently in any given combination or order. Currently, the BODY-Q cannot provide overall appearance scores across scales that measure a similar super-ordinate construct (i.e., overall appearance), which could improve the scales’ usefulness as a benchmarking tool and improve the comprehensibility of patient feedback. We explored the possibility of establishing overall appearance scores, by applying a bifactor model to the BODY-Q appearance scales. Methods In a bifactor model, questionnaire items load onto both a primary specific factors and a general factor, such as satisfaction with appearance. The international BODY-Q validation patient sample (n = 734) was used to fit a bifactor model to the appearance domain. Factor loadings, fit indices, and correlation between bifactor appearance domain and satisfaction with body scale were assessed. Results All items loaded on the general factor of their corresponding domain. In the appearance domain, all items demonstrated adequate item fit to the model. All scales had satisfactory fit to the bifactor model (RMSEA 0.045, CFI 0.969, and TLI 0.964). The correlation between the appearance domain summary scores and satisfaction with body scale scores was found to be 0.77. Discussion We successfully applied a bifactor model to BODY-Q data with good item and model fit indices. With this method, we were able to produce reliable overall appearance scores which may improve the interpretability of the BODY-Q while increasing flexibility.

Background Breast implant-related health problems are a subject of fierce debate. Reliable population-based estimates of implant prevalence rates are not available, however, due to a lack of historical registries and incomplete sales data, precluding absolute risk assessments. Objectives This study aimed to describe the methodology of a novel procedure to determine Dutch breast implant prevalence based on the evaluation of routine chest radiographs. Methods The validity of the new method was first examined in a separate study. Eight reviewers examined a series of 180 chest radiographs with (n = 60) or without (n = 120) a breast implant confirmed by a computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scan. After a consensus meeting with best-performing expert reviewers, we reviewed 3000 chest radiographs of women aged 20 to 70 years in 2 large regional hospitals in the Netherlands in 2015. To calculate the national breast implant prevalence, regional prevalence variations were corrected utilizing the National Breast Cancer Screening Program. Results Eight reviewers scored with a median sensitivity of 71.7% (range, 41.7%-85.0%) and a median specificity of 94.6% (range, 73.4%-97.5%). After a consensus meeting and a reevaluation by best-performing expert reviewers, sensitivity was 79.9% and specificity was 99.2%. The estimated national prevalence of breast implants among women between 20 and 70 years was 3.0%, ranging from 1.7% at 21 to 30 years to 3.9% between 51 and 60 years. Conclusions The novel method in this study was validated with a high sensitivity and specificity, resulting in accurate prevalence estimates and providing the opportunity to conduct absolute risk assessment studies on the health consequences of breast implants. Level of Evidence: 2

Highlights • Carefully consider the pocket location during implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) in slim patients. • Change to the pre-pectoral plane in tertiary autologous salvage breast reconstruction after IBBR to avoid BAD. • Rerouting the PM muscle to its anatomical position around a free flap can be done without damaging the vascular pedicle., Introduction Breast animation deformity (BAD) is a known complication of sub-pectoral implant placement that is usually corrected by simply repositioning the implant to a pre-pectoral position. However, when this complication occurs in the case of a sub-pectorally placed free-flap, the solution becomes a lot less straightforward: repositioning of the flap carries the risk of possible damage to the pedicle. In order to avoid having to re-do the anastomoses we opted for a rerouting of the pectoralis major muscle around the vascular anastomoses. Presentation of case We present a 26-year old patient with unsatisfactory aesthetic outcomes of her bilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction. The flaps were placed sub-pectorally, in the already existing pocket that was created during her first breast reconstruction with silicone implants, resulting in severe BAD. Repositioning the free flap from the sub-pectoral to the pre-pectoral plane allowed for reinsertion of the pectoralis major muscle to its anatomical position without jeopardizing the vascular anastomoses. The patient was satisfied with the increased projection of the breasts. Discussion Changing the plane from sub-pectoral to pre-pectoral remains the best treatment option for patients experiencing BAD. In combination with an acellular dermal matrix, this would have been a good option for our patient. However, when choosing to perform autologous breast reconstruction instead, our recommendation would be to always place the flap in the pre-pectoral plane to avoid BAD. Conclusion The report shows that the plane of a flap can be successfully changed without jeopardizing the pedicle of the flap.

Purpose Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is caused by an interruption of the lymphatic system after breast cancer treatment. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), by which one or more patent lymphatic collecting vessels are connected to subcutaneous veins, shows promising results. Postoperatively, the patency of these anastomosis can be evaluated; however, little is known concerning the long-term patency after LVA in patients with BCRL. The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term patency, quality of life (QoL) and arm circumference after LVA, and to explore differences between patent and non-patent anastomosis and its correlation with clinical improvement. Methods Twenty-five patients underwent indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography, lymph ICF-questionnaire, and arm circumference measurement preoperatively and 12 months after the LVA procedure. Results Seventy-six percent of the patients showed at least one patent anastomosis after 12 months. Quality of life according to the Lymph-ICF increased significantly (p Conclusions LVA showed an acceptable patency and positive correlation between a patent anastomosis and clinical improvement after 12 months. Further research with a larger study population is required to determine whether outcomes or patient characteristics significantly correlate with a patent anastomosis after LVA operation.

Introduction Better sensation in the reconstructed breast improves the quality of life. Sensory nerve coaptation is a valuable addition to autologous breast reconstruction. There are few publications concerning the sensory nerves of the breast and the nipple‐areola complex and reports are contradictory, so it is unknown which nerve is best suited as a recipient for coaptation. The current study serves as a proof of concept. Materials and Methods The areas innervated by the anterior cutaneous branches (ACBs) of the intercostal nerves (ICNs) were studied on two separate occasions in two healthy women. First, the ACBs of ICNs 2–5 were individually blocked using ultrasound. Next, the ACBs of all levels were blocked simultaneously. Sensation was measured using Semmes‐Weinstein monofilaments. The numbed areas corresponding to the ICNs were drawn in a raster of 2 × 2 cm. Results The largest area was supplied by the ACB of the 4th ICN, located in the upper (UIQ) and the lower (LIQ) inner quadrants of the breast. The 2nd‐largest area was supplied by the ACB of the 3rd ICN. Blockage of ACBs 2–5 affected sensation in the nipple and the areola. Conclusions Blockage of all levels 2–5 partially affected sensation in the nipple‐areola complex, suggesting innervation by a nerve plexus consisting of both ACBs and lateral cutaneous branches (LCBs). ACB4 supplied the largest area of the breast in the UIQ and LIQ and could be best suited for sensory nerve coaptation to optimize sensation in the autologously reconstructed breast.

Background: The sensory recovery of the breast remains an undervalued aspect of autologous breast reconstruction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nerve coaptation on the sensory recovery of the breast following DIEP flap breast reconstruction and to assess the associations of length of follow-up and timing of the reconstruction.Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted of all patients who underwent either innervated or noninnervated DIEP flap breast reconstruction and returned for follow-up between September of 2015 and July of 2017. Nerve coaptation was performed to the anterior cutaneous branch of the third intercostal nerve. Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments were used for sensory testing of the native skin and flap skin.Results: A total of 48 innervated DIEP flaps in 36 patients and 61 noninnervated DIEP flaps in 45 patients were tested at different follow-up time points. Nerve coaptation was significantly associated with lower monofilament values in all areas of the reconstructed breast (adjusted difference, -1.2; p Conclusions: This study demonstrated that nerve coaptation in DIEP flap breast reconstruction is associated with a significantly better sensory recovery in all areas of the reconstructed breast compared with noninnervated flaps. The length of follow-up was significantly associated with the sensory recovery.

Background: Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive disease consisting of tissue swelling resulting from excessive retention of lymphatic fluid. Measuring upper limb volume is crucial in patients to detect disease progression and to study the effects of treatment. The aim is to assess the validity and reliability of a newly developed system, Peracutus Aqua Meth, for measuring the upper limb volume compared with the gold standard water volumetry device. (In this study, the Bravometer was used). Methods and Results: Healthy volunteers were recruited in October 2017. Three measurements were performed per device. The obtained data were recorded per measurement, device, and researcher. Primary outcome was to determine the validity and reliability of the Peracutus Aqua Meth. Secondary outcomes were intra- and interrater reliability, measurement time, self-reported participant satisfaction, and influence of body mass index (BMI). Thirty-nine healthy volunteers were included. Mean differences in the validity in the Peracutus Aqua Meth and Bravometer were 47.26 and 78.16 mL, respectively (p = 0.04), with a Pearson's r of 0.99. Intra- and interrater reliability of the Peracutus Aqua Meth were both 0.99, in the Bravometer 0.96 and 0.97, respectively (p

Background. Indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) offers the potential to provide objective data for evaluating tissue perfusion of flaps and reduce the incidence of postoperative necrosis. Consensus on ICGA protocols and information on factors that have an influence on fluorescence intensity is lacking. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive insight of in vivo and ex vivo evaluation of factors influencing the fluorescence intensity when using ICGA during reconstructive flap surgery. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted to provide a comprehensive overview of currently used ICGA protocols in reconstructive flap surgery. Additionally, ex vivo experiments were performed to further investigate the practical influence of potentially relevant factors. Results. Factors that are considered important in ICGA protocols, as well as factors that might influence fluorescence intensity are scarcely reported. The ex vivo experiments demonstrated that fluorescence intensity was significantly related to dose, working distance, angle, penetration depth, and ambient light. Conclusions. This study identified factors that significantly influence the fluorescence intensity of ICGA. Applying a weight-adjusted ICG dose seems preferable over a fixed dose, recommended working distances are advocated, and the imaging head during ICGA should be positioned in an angle of 60° to 90° without significantly influencing the fluorescence intensity. All of these factors should be considered and reported when using ICGA for tissue perfusion assessment during reconstructive flap surgery.

The deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap is one of the most used free flaps for the reconstruction of the breast after a mastectomy. Despite careful selection of the patients and preoperative imaging, difficulties in vascularization of the flap can occur in some cases. Although multiple vascular connections (bipedicled, turbocharged, or stacked) can be made in selected cases, there can still be venous congestion before the flap is transferred. Between 2016 and 2018, 4 cases in our series of 281 patients experienced such problems. Three of 4 patients had undergone preoperative imaging of the perforators by a magnetic resonance angiography or computed tomography angiography, in which a good perforator was seen. All 4 patients had a venous problem of blood circulation in the flap intraoperatively. The flaps were left to rest to decide on its venous status. Without improvement after this period of 20 to 30 minutes, the surgeons decided to withhold the translocation of the flap to the chest wall and sutured the flap back into the donor side. The final anastomosis of the DIEP flap occurred on average 8 days after the prefabrication. The translocation of the DIEP flap to the chest in this second operation went uncomplicated in all cases. Postoperatively, all patients had adequate arterial inflow and venous outflow of the flap. There were no postoperative complications. In case a DIEP flap shows venous problems before translocation, a delay procedure can be applied. In this way, the vascularization of the flap can be improved, and the translocation of the DIEP flap in a second operation can be successfully performed.

Background Given the rising popularity in body-contouring procedures (BCPs) in the United States, it is important to assess the currently unknown association between resident involvement and postoperative complications. As such, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of resident involvement on outcomes in BCPs using a large national database. Methods A retrospective analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was performed (2006-2012) to identify patients undergoing BCPs, using relevant Current Procedural Terminology codes. Outcome measures included postoperative complications, hospital length of stay, and operation time. Multivariate regression models were used to assess the impact of resident involvement and resident experience on outcomes. Results A total of 9638 cases were identified, of which 3311 involved resident participation. Resident involvement was associated with significantly higher rates of complications (7.8% vs 4.4%; P = 0.003) and longer operation times (180.7 vs 171.9 minutes; P = 0.005). For each year increase of resident postgraduate year, there was a significant decrease in odds of complications (odds ratio, 0.906; P = 0.013) and operative time (-2.7 minutes; P = 0.001). Conclusions Resident involvement in BCPs was associated with an increased rate of overall complications in a large, national database. However, the clinical significance of these outcomes may be debated. Increased postgraduate year experience as a surgical resident was inversely associated with overall complications. Guided resident autonomy and earlier exposure to BCPs could lead to an optimization of clinical outcomes and resident education.

Plastic and reconstructive surgery : global open 9(2), e3394 (2021). doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000003394, Published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, Pa.

Purpose Lymphedema is a debilitating condition that significantly affects patient’s quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcomes after lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) for extremity lymphedema. Methods A single-center prospective study on upper and lower extremity lymphedema patients was performed. All LVA procedures were preceded by outpatient Indocyanine Green (ICG) lymphography. Quality of life measured by the Lymph-ICF was the primary outcome. Limb circumference, use of compression garments, and frequency of cellulitis episodes and manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) sessions were secondary outcomes. Results One hundred consecutive patients, predominantly experiencing upper extremity lymphedema following breast cancer (n = 85), underwent a total of 132 LVAs. During a mean follow-up of 25 months, mean Lymph-ICF score significantly decreased from 43.9 preoperative to 30.6 postoperative, representing significant QoL improvement. Decrease in upper and lower limb circumference was observed in 52% of patients with a mean decrease of 6%. Overall mean circumference was not significantly different. Percentage of patients that could reduce compression garments in the upper and lower extremity group was 65% and 40%, respectively. Number of cellulitis episodes per year and MLD sessions per week showed a mean decrease of respectively 0.6 and 0.8 in the upper extremity and 0.4 and 1.0 in the lower extremity group. Conclusions LVA resulted in significant QoL improvement in upper and lower extremity lymphedema patients. Limb circumference did not significantly improve but good results concerning compression garments, cellulitis episodes, and MLD sessions were obtained. Additionally, a simple and patient-friendly method for outpatient ICG lymphography is presented.

Background Breast cancer will affect one in eight women during their lifetime. The opportunity to restore the removed tissue and cosmetic appearance is provided by reconstructive breast surgery following skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM). Mastectomy skin flap necrosis (MSFN) is a common complication following SSM breast reconstruction. This postoperative complication can be prevented by intraoperative assessment of mastectomy skin flap viability and intervention when tissue perfusion is compromised. Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography is presumed to be a better predictor of MSFN compared to clinical evaluation alone. Objectives To assess the effects of indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICGA) for preventing mastectomy skin flap necrosis in women undergoing immediate breast reconstruction following skin-sparing mastectomy. To summarise the different ICGA protocols available for assessment of mastectomy skin flap perfusion in women undergoing immediate breast reconstructions following skin-sparing mastectomy. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Breast Cancer Specialised Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; Issue 3, 2019), MEDLINE, Embase, the World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) and Clinicaltrials.gov in April 2019. In addition, we searched reference lists of published studies. Selection criteria We included studies that compared the use of ICGA to clinical evaluation to assess mastectomy skin vascularisation and recruited women undergoing immediate autologous or prosthetic reconstructive surgery following SSM for confirmed breast malignancy or high risk of developing breast cancer. Data collection and analysis Two review authors independently assessed the risk of bias of the included nonrandomised studies and extracted data on postoperative outcomes, including postoperative MSFN, reoperation, autologous flap necrosis, dehiscence, infection, haematoma and seroma, and patient-related outcomes. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach and we constructed two 'Summary of finding's tables: one for the comparison of ICGA to clinical evaluation on a per patient basis and one on a per breast basis. Main results Nine nonrandomised cohort studies met the inclusion criteria and involved a total of 1589 women with 2199 breast reconstructions. We included seven retrospective and two prospective cohort studies. Six studies reported the number of MSFN on a per breast basis for a total of 1435 breasts and three studies reported the number of MSFN on a per patient basis for a total of 573 women. Five studies reported the number of other complications on a per breast basis for a total of 1370 breasts and four studies reported the number on a per patient basis for a total of 613 patients. Therefore, we decided to pool data separately. Risk of bias for each included nonrandomised study was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort studies. There was serious concern with risk of bias due to the nonrandomised study design of all included studies and the low comparability of cohorts in most studies. The quality of the evidence was found to be very low, after downgrading the quality of evidence twice for imprecision based on the small sample sizes and low number of events in the included studies. Postoperative complications on a per patient basis We are uncertain about the effect of ICGA on MSFN (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.40 to 1.56; three studies, 573 participants: very low quality of evidence), infection rates (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.60 to 1.40; four studies, 613 participants: very low quality of evidence), haematoma rates (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.30 to 2.53; two studies, 459 participants: very low quality of evidence) and seroma rates (RR 1.68, 95% CI 0.41 to 6.80; two studies, 408 participants: very low quality of evidence) compared to the clinical group. We found evidence that ICGA may reduce reoperation rates (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.72; four studies, 613 participants: very low quality of evidence). One study considered dehiscence as an outcome. In this single study, dehiscence was observed in 2.2% of participants (4/184) in the ICGA group compared to 0.5% of participants (1/184) in the clinical group (P = 0.372). The RR was 4.00 (95% CI 0.45 to 35.45; one study; 368 participants; very low quality of evidence). Postoperative complications on a per breast basis We found evidence that ICGA may reduce MSFN (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.82; six studies, 1435 breasts: very low quality of evidence), may reduce reoperation rates (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.92; five studies, 1370 breasts: very low quality of evidence) and may reduce infection rates (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.97; five studies, 1370 breasts: very low quality of evidence) compared to the clinical group. We are uncertain about the effect of ICGA on haematoma rates (RR 1.53, CI 95% 0.47 to 4.95; four studies, 1042 breasts: very low quality of evidence) and seroma rates (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.37 to 1.35; two studies, 528 breasts: very low quality of evidence). None of the studies reported patient-related outcomes. ICGA protocols: eight studies used the SPY System and one study used the Photodynamic Eye imaging system (PDE) to assess MSFN. ICGA protocols in the included studies were not extensively described in most studies. Authors' conclusions Although mastectomy skin flap perfusion is performed more frequently using ICGA as a helpful tool, there is a lack of high-quality evidence in the context of randomised controlled trials. The quality of evidence in this review is very low, since only nonrandomised cohort studies have been included. With the results from this review, no conclusions can be drawn about what method of assessment is best to use during breast reconstructive surgery. High-quality randomised controlled studies that compare the use of ICGA to assess MSFN compared to clinical evaluation are needed.

Autologous fat transfer (AFT), also known as lipofilling, has been demonstrated to be more than just a filler. Through both mechanical dissection and local tissue remodelling mediated by stem cells, it is thought to improve scar quality, function and even pain. This paper aims to investigate the evidence regarding its safety and effectiveness for treating fibrosis and scar-related conditions.A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant studies. Extensive data extraction and standardization allowed conducting a meta-analysis.Forty-five studies (3033 patients) provided sufficient data for meta-analysis. The AFT treatment resulted in significant increase in satisfaction scores of both patient and surgeon (p = 0.001). Furthermore, a significant overall scar improvement was also found in the evaluation using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, with the most notable effect in the scar stiffness (p0.001) and pliability (p = 0.004). In patients with severe pain, AFT resulted in a significant pain reduction of 3.7 points on the Visual Analogue Scale (p0.001). Last, but not the least, the evidence suggests a significant recovery of radiotherapy-induced tissue damage (p = 0.003) and function (p = 0.012). On average, 1.4 procedures were required to achieve the desired result. Minor complications occurred in 4.8% of the procedures.AFT is a promising treatment for fibrosis and scar-related conditions. Future research should focus on determining the long-term effects of AFT on fibrosis, pain and function. In addition, it would be crucial to quantify the mechanical and regenerative properties of fat as well as the effect of added supplements or stem cells.

Advancements in reconstructive microsurgery have evolved into supermicrosurgery; connecting vessels with diameter between 0.3 and 0.8 mm for reconstruction of lymphatic flow and vascularized tissue transplantation. Supermicrosurgery is limited by the precision and dexterity of the surgeon’s hands. Robot assistance can help overcome these human limitations, thereby enabling a breakthrough in supermicrosurgery. We report the first-in-human study of robot-assisted supermicrosurgery using a dedicated microsurgical robotic platform. A prospective randomized pilot study is conducted comparing robot-assisted and manual supermicrosurgical lymphatico-venous anastomosis (LVA) in treating breast cancer-related lymphedema. We evaluate patient outcome at 1 and 3 months post surgery, duration of the surgery, and quality of the anastomosis. At 3 months, patient outcome improves. Furthermore, a steep decline in duration of time required to complete the anastomosis is observed in the robot-assisted group (33–16 min). Here, we report the feasibility of robot-assisted supermicrosurgical anastomosis in LVA, indicating promising results for the future of reconstructive supermicrosurgery., Reconstructive microsurgery is limited by the precision that human hands can achieve. Here, the authors demonstrate in a randomized clinical pilot trial the feasibility of robot-assisted supermicrosurgery using a dedicated microsurgical robot for the completion of lymphatico-venous anastomosis in the treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema

Incorporation of new technologies advances surgery in general. One example is robot assistance which can potentially overcome limitations in accessibility, dexterity, and ergonomics, thereby improving outcome of surgical procedures. To date, robot assistance has been used successfully in various fields of surgery. Also, in microsurgery robot assistance could offer great advantages as it requires great precision and meticulous technique. Currently available surgical robotic platforms are primarily designed for endoscopic procedures and lack the specific requirements for true microsurgery. Therefore, plastic surgeons of the Maastricht University Medical Center (Maastricht, the Netherlands) teamed up with engineers from the Eindhoven University of Technology (Eindhoven, the Netherlands) and developed the first dedicated robotic platform for (super)microsurgery, the MicroSure Robot (MSR). Level of evidence: Level V, therapeutic study.

Introduction It is known that breast reconstruction improves quality of life (QoL) in women who underwent mastectomy. Previous studies showed that autologous immediate breast reconstruction is as safe as delayed breast reconstruction. However, there is not much known about the influence of the timing of the breast reconstruction on QoL. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effect of timing of the breast reconstruction on QoL, using the BREAST-Q questionnaire. Methods A total of 543 patients aged 18 years or older who underwent deep inferior epigastric perforator flap reconstruction after mastectomy (for prophylactic or oncological reasons) at least 12 months ago were selected in 3 hospitals in the Netherlands and invited to complete the BREAST-Q. Mean QoL outcomes were compared between patients who underwent immediate or delayed breast reconstruction. Furthermore, QoL outcomes were compared with recently published normative data of the BREAST-Q. Results Patients who underwent immediate reconstruction reported higher scores on satisfaction with psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, physical well-being of the chest, and physical well-being of the abdomen. Patients who underwent delayed reconstruction reported higher scores on satisfaction with breasts, outcome, and nipples. However, after adjusting for potentially influencing factors, none of the differences were significant. Compared with the normative BREAST-Q data, both of our patient groups reported higher scores on satisfaction with breasts, psychological well-being, and sexual well-being, whereas they reported lower scores on satisfaction with physical well-being of the chest and the abdomen. Conclusions This study suggests that patients who underwent immediate or delayed deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction have comparable QoL more than 1 year after surgery, irrespective of the timing of the breast reconstruction.

Background: Autologous fat transfer (AFT), also known as fat grafting or lipofilling, has already become a part of clinical practice for treating contour deformities of the breast, even though evidence regarding its efficacy is still lacking. This is the first meta-analysis on this subject, aimed to facilitate intuitive interpretation of the available data by clinicians, guideline committees and policy makers. Methods: A literature search was performed on 1 September 2017 in PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library to identify all relevant studies. A rigorous data extraction and standardisation process allowed pooling of clinical outcome data into a meta-analysis. Results: Eighty-nine studies consisting of 5350 unique patients were included. The mean follow-up was 1.9 years. Meta-analysis revealed a very high overall patient and surgeon satisfaction rate of 94.3% and 95.7%, respectively, which was also confirmed by high satisfaction scores and Breast-Q scores. Overall, only 1.5 sessions were needed to achieve the desired result. Though evidence on the long-term volume retention is lacking, based on the current data it was calculated to be 52.4% at one year. Only 5.0% of procedures resulted in clinical complications and 8.6% of breasts required biopsy due to abnormal clinical or radiological findings. Conclusions: AFT seems to be an effective procedure in breast reconstruction, reflected by the high patient and surgeon satisfaction and low incidence of clinical and radiological complications. Future research should focus on evaluating the technical and patient factors influencing the rate of fat resorption as well as its oncological safety. (C) 2018 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by El-sevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Background: Lymphedema affects approximate to 15% of all patients after breast cancer treatment. The aim of this review was to assess the clinical effects (improvement in arm circumference and quality of life) of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) in treating breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Methods and Results: A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library in July 2017, to identify all studies on LVA for the treatment of BCRL. The primary outcome was limb volume or circumference reduction and the secondary outcome was the improvement of quality of life. The search yielded 686 results, of which 15 articles were included in this review. All studies reported on BCRL in terms of volume or circumference reduction. Thirteen out of the included studies reported a positive surgical effect on reduction in volume or circumference. Twelve articles mentioned qualitative measures, being symptom improvement and improvement in quality of life. The number of patients who experienced symptoms relief ranged from 50% to 100% in the studies. Conclusions: The current review showed that the effects of LVA for the treatment of BCRL are variable among studies, although overall LVA seems effective in early stage BCRL. Higher quality studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of LVA.

Contains fulltext : 200372.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Advanced microsurgical procedures are currently limited by human precision and manual dexterity. The potential of robotics in microsurgery is highlighted, including a general overview of applications of robotic assistance in microsurgery and its introduction in different surgical specialties. A new robotic platform especially designed for (super) microsurgery is presented. Results of an in vivo animal study underline its feasibility and encourage further development toward clinical studies. Future directions of robotic microsurgery are proposed.

Background Acellular matrices (AM) might enable a direct single-stage breast reconstruction procedure resulting in an improved efficacy of the reconstruction phase for patients. Safety concerns are an important issue due to a recent study which shows that single-stage breast reconstruction with Strattice T resulted in more complications versus a two-stage reconstruction. Therefore, the goal of this study is to compare the short-and long-term complications of a single-stage breast reconstruction with the use of two types of AM (Strattice T and Meso Biomatrix (R)) versus two-stage breast reconstruction without the use of an AM. Methods Cohort study with single-stage breast reconstruction with Strattice T (n = 28) or Meso BioMatrix (R) (n = 20) or twostage breast reconstruction without an AM (n = 36) at the Maastricht Academic Hospital, the Netherlands. All complications, in particular major complications with the need for re-admission to the hospital, re-exploration, and implant explantation, were the primary outcome measures. A 1-year follow-up was achieved for all patients. Results Baseline characteristics of all 52 patients were similar between groups. There was a significantly higher complication rate in the single-stageAM groups with loss of the implant in 40.0% of the breasts from the Meso BioMatrix (R) group and in 10.7% of the Strattice T group compared to no implant loss in the control group. Conclusions This cohort study clearly suggests that the use of a single-stage breast reconstruction is not safe with the use of these AMs. Well-designed prospective studies that guarantee the safety of those matrices should be published before these AMs are used in implant-based surgery. Level of Evidence: Level III, risk /prognostic study.

Purpose The number of breast cancer survivors continues to grow. Due to refinements in operating techniques, autologous breast reconstruction has become part of standard care. Impaired sensation remains a debilitating side effect with a significant impact on the quality of life. Microsurgical nerve coaptation of a sensory nerve has the potential to improve sensation of the reconstructed breast. This study investigates the effect of improved sensation of the reconstructed breast on the quality of life in breast cancer survivors. Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed in the Maastricht University Medical Center. Patients undergoing a DIEP flap breast reconstruction between January 2015 and January 2016 were included. The primary outcome was quality of life (BREAST-Q domain ‘physical well-being of the chest’). The Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments were used for objective sensation measurement of the reconstructed breast(s). Results Eighteen patients with and 14 patients without nerve coaptation responded. Nipple reconstruction was the only characteristic that differed statistically significant between both groups (p = 0.04). The BREAST-Q score for the domain physical well-being of the chest was 77.89 ± 18.89 on average in patients with nerve coaptation and 66.21 ± 18.26 in patients without nerve coaptation (p = 0.09). Linear regression showed a statistically significant relation between objectively measured sensation and BREAST-Q score for the domain physical well-being of the chest with a regression coefficient of − 13.17 ± 3.61 (p

Background: The septocutaneous tensor fasciae latae or lateral thigh perforator flap was previously introduced by the authors' group as an alternative flap for autologous breast reconstruction when the abdomen is not suitable as a donor site. The authors analyzed their experience with the lateral thigh perforator flap and present the surgical refinements that were introduced.Methods: A prospective study was conducted of all lateral thigh perforator flap breast reconstructions performed since September of 2012. Patient demographics, operative details, complications, and flap reexplorations were recorded. Preoperative imaging with magnetic resonance angiography was performed in all patients. Surgical refinements introduced during this study included limitation of the flap width and the use of quilting sutures at the donor site.Results: A total of 138 lateral thigh perforator flap breast reconstructions were performed in 86 consecutive patients. Median operative times were 277 minutes (range, 196 to 561 minutes) for unilateral procedures and 451 minutes (range, 335 to 710 minutes) for bilateral. Median flap weight was 348 g (range, 175 to 814 g). Two total flap losses (1.4 percent) were recorded, and 11 flaps (8.0 percent) required reexploration, which resulted in viable flaps. The incidence of donor-site complications was reduced significantly after the surgical refinements were introduced. Wound problems decreased from 40.0 percent to 6.3 percent, seroma decreased from 25.0 percent to 9.5 percent, and infection decreased from 27.5 percent to 9.5 percent.Conclusions: The lateral thigh perforator flap is an excellent option for autologous breast reconstruction, with minimal recipient-site complications. The surgical refinements resulted in a significant reduction of donor-site complications. Therefore, the lateral thigh perforator flap is currently the authors' second choice after the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap.

IMPORTANCE: The use of autologous fat transfer (AFT) or lipofilling for correcting contour deformities is seen as one of the major breakthroughs in reconstructive plastic surgery. Its applications in facial reconstructive surgery have been of particular interest owing to the prospect of achieving autologous reconstruction by a minimally invasive approach. However, its unpredictability and variable degree of resorption have limited its utility and much skepticism still exists regarding its efficacy. Furthermore, more than 2 decades of clinical research have produced a highly fragmented body of evidence that has not been able to provide definite answers. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of AFT in facial reconstruction through a systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES: A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from inception to October 11, 2017. STUDY SELECTION: All published studies investigating the efficacy and safety of AFT in facial reconstructive surgery. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two independent reviewers performed data extraction systematically, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines. Summary measures were pooled in a random-effects model meta-analysis. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The patient and surgeon satisfaction, graft survival, number of AFT sessions, and the incidence of AFT-related complications were the main outcomes of interest in this meta-analysis. RESULTS: This systematic review resulted in the inclusion 52 relevant studies consisting of 1568 unique patients. These included 4 randomized clinical trials, 11 cohort studies, and 37 case series. The overall follow-up averaged 1.3 years after AFT. Meta-analysis revealed a very high overall patient satisfaction rate of 91.1% (95% CI, 85.1%-94.8%) and overall surgeon satisfaction rate of 88.6% (95% CI, 83.4%-92.4%). The number of AFT sessions required to achieve the desired result was 1.5 (95% CI, 1.3-1.7) and 50% to 60% of the injected volume was retained at 1 year. Only 4.8% (95% CI, 3.3%-6.9%) of procedures resulted in clinical complications. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: To our knowledge, this study provides the first overview of the current knowledge about AFT in facial reconstructive surgery. Our results confirm that AFT is an effective technique for treating soft-tissue deformities in the head and neck, with low rate of minor complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA.

Innervated full thickness graft will be presented as an option to reconstruct a fingertip defect which might result in better sensibility than standard reconstruction using a full thickness graft without innervation. Also, anastomosing the nerve stumps can decrease the chance of developing neuroma.

Purpose of review In the present review, recent findings regarding silicone breast implants (SBIs) complicated by rheumatic autoimmune diseases are described. Recent findings Despite changes in the principal constituents of the silicone implants during the past 50 years, silicone remained an adjuvant that may 'bleed' and subsequently may be a chronic stimulus to the immune system resulting in similar clinical manifestations as 50 years ago. Silicones are spread throughout the body and can be detected in tissues and the central nervous system. Autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome by adjuvants (ASIA), allergies, autoimmune diseases, immune deficiencies and lymphomas occur in patients with SBIs. There is a need for adequately adjusted epidemiological studies to ascertain the frequency of these diseases. Explantation of the breast implants, however, should be advised to patients with complaints, as 60-80% of patients show an amelioration of the signs and symptoms after explantation. Summary SBIs are associated in a proportion of patients with complaints such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, arthralgias, myalgias, pyrexia, dry eyes and dry mouth. Silicones can migrate from the implant through the body and can induce a chronic inflammatory process. Explantation of SBI results in the majority of patients in an amelioration of the symptoms.

Purpose Lymphedema is a chronic and disabling sequel of breast cancer treatment that can be treated by lymphatico-venous anastomosis (LVA). Artificial connections between the venous and lymphatic system are performed supermicrosurgically. This prospective study analyses the effect of LVA on quality of life. Methods A prospective study was performed between November 2015 and July 2016 on consecutive patients in the Maastricht University Medical Centre. Quality of life was considered as the primary outcome, and the Lymphedema International Classification of Functioning (Lymph-ICF) questionnaire was used. Discontinuation of compressive stockings and arm volume, using the Upper Extremity Lymphedema index (UEL-index), were the secondary outcomes. Results Twenty women with early-stage breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) were included. The mean age was 55.9 ± 4 years and the median BMI was 25.1 [21–30] kg/m2. The mean follow-up was 7.8 ± 1.5 months. Statistically significant improvement in quality of life was achieved in the total score and for all the quality of life domains after one year of follow-up (p

Background The evidence justifying the use of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) in implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) is limited. We did a prospective randomised trial to compare the safety of IBBR with an ADM immediately after mastectomy with that of two-stage IBBR.Methods We did an open-label, randomised, controlled trial in eight hospitals in the Netherlands. Eligible women were older than 18 years with breast carcinoma or a gene mutation linked with breast cancer who intended to undergo skin-sparing mastectomy and immediate IBBR. Randomisation was done electronically, stratifi ed per centre and in blocks of ten to achieve roughly balanced groups. Women were assigned to undergo one-stage IBBR with ADM (Strattice, LifeCell, Branchburg, NJ, USA) or two-stage IBBR. The primary endpoint was quality of life and safety was assessed by the occurrence of adverse outcomes. Analyses were done per protocol with logistic regression and generalised estimating equations. This study is registered at Nederlands Trial Register, number NTR5446.Findings 142 women were enrolled between April 14, 2013, and May 29, 2015, of whom 59 (91 breasts) in the one-stage IBBR with ADM group and 62 (92 breasts) in the two-stage IBBR group were included in analyses. One-stage IBBR with ADM was associated with signifi cantly higher risk per breast of surgical complications (crude odds ratio 3.81, 95% CI 2.67-5.43, pInterpretation Immediate one-stage IBBR with ADM was associated with adverse events and should be considered very carefully. Understanding of selection of patients, risk factors, and surgical and postsurgical procedures needs to be improved.

How are tactile sensations in the breast represented in the female and male brain? Using ultra high-field 7 T MRI in ten females and ten males, we demonstrate that the representation of tactile breast information shows a somatotopic organization, with cortical magnification of the nipple. Furthermore, we show that the core representation of the breast is organized according to the specific nerve architecture that underlies breast sensation, where the medial and lateral sides of one breast are asymmetrically represented in bilateral primary somatosensory cortex. Finally, gradual selectivity signatures allude to a somatotopic organization of the breast area with overlapping, but distinctive, cortical representations of breast segments. Our univariate and multivariate analyses consistently showed similar somatosensory breast representations in males and females. The findings can guide future research on neuroplastic reorganization of the breast area, across reproductive life stages, and after breast surgery.

Objectives: Numerous studies have shown that breast reconstruction after mastectomy improves QoL in breast cancer survivors. However, still about half of the patients does not opt for reconstruction. In order to accommodate suitable counseling, we should elucidate the factors that play a role in the decision-making process. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of QoL, among women diagnosed with breast cancer before the start of any treatment, on their decision whether or not to undergo breast reconstruction.Materials and methods: BREAST-Q surveys were provided to breast cancer patients at the specialized breast care outpatient clinic after their first consultation with a surgical oncologist, between June 2017 and March 2019. The Q-scores of the subdomains physical well-being, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, and satisfaction with breasts of patients that underwent mastectomy were statistically analyzed.Results: Sixty-seven patients, undergoing mastectomy, completed the questionnaire. Fifty-four percent received reconstructive surgery. Mean age of patients seeking breast reconstruction was significantly lower than patients who did not opt for a reconstruction (53.5 vs. 63.7). Mean follow-up after mastectomy was 18.1 months. Except for satisfaction with breasts, mean Q-scores were higher in the group of patients who did not choose for reconstructive surgery. Psychosocial well-being was significantly higher in the non-reconstruction group (p = 0.012).Conclusions: Psychosocial well-being at time of diagnosis of breast cancer was significantly higher in patients refraining from breast reconstructive surgery after mastectomy. Psychosocial characteristics might be essential for the decision-making process as well. Further prospective research should evaluate this. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd, BASO similar to The Association for Cancer Surgery, and the European Society of Surgical Oncology. All rights reserved.

Background: The BODY-Q is a widely used patient-reported outcome measure of surgical outcomes in weight loss and body contouring patients. Reducing the length of the BODY-Q assessment could overcome implementation barriers in busy clinics. A shorter BODY-Q could be achieved by using computerized adaptive testing, a method to shorten and tailor assessments while maintaining reliability and accuracy. In this study, the authors apply computerized adaptive testing to the BODY-Q and assess computerized adaptive testing performance in terms of item reduction and accuracy.Methods: Parameters describing the psychometric properties of 138 BODY-Q items (i.e., questions) were derived from the original validation sample (n = 734). The 138 items are arranged into 18 scales reflecting Appearance, Quality of Life, and Experience of Care domains. The authors simulated 1000 administrations of the computerized adaptive testing until a stopping rule, reflecting assessment accuracy of standard error less than 0.55, was met. The authors describe the reduction of assessment length in terms of the mean and range of items administered. The authors assessed accuracy by determining correlation between full test and computerized adaptive testing scores.Results: The authors ran 54 simulations. Mean item reduction was 36.9 percent (51 items; range, 48 to 138 items). Highest item reduction was achieved for the Experience of Care domain (56.2 percent, 22.5 items). Correlation between full test scores and the BODY-Q computerized adaptive test scores averaged 0.99.Conclusions: Substantial item reduction is possible by using BODY-Q computerized adaptive testing. Reduced assessment length using BODY-Q computerized adaptive testing could reduce patient burden while preserving the accuracy of clinical patient-reported outcomes for patients undergoing weight loss and body contouring operations.

An estimated 1-3% of all women in the Netherlands carry breast implants. Since the introduction five decades ago, problems with a variety of breast implants have emerged with direct consequences for the patients' health. Plastic surgeons worldwide reacted through campaigning for auditing on long-term implant quality, surgeon performance, and institutional outcomes in implant registries. Especially, the PIP implant scandal of 2010 demonstrated the paucity of epidemiological data and uncovered a weakness in our ability to even 'track and trace' patients. In addition, a recent report of the Dutch Institute of National Health showed a lack of compliance of 100% of breast implant producers to CE requirements. These arguments stress the need for an independent implant registry.Insufficient capture rates or dependence from the implant producers made the variety of national and international patient registries unreliable. The Dutch Breast Implant Registry (DBIR) is unique because it is an opt-out registry without the need for informed consent and thus a high capture rate. Furthermore, an estimated 95% of breast implants are implanted by board-certified plastic surgeons. Funding was received from a non-governmental organisation to increase the quality of health care in the Netherlands, and maintenance is gathered by 25 euros per implant inserted.This article describes the way the Dutch have set up their system, with special attention to the well-known hurdles of starting a patient registry. Examples include: funding, medical ethical issues, opt out system, benchmarking, quality assurance as well as governance and collaboration. The Dutch consider their experience and data shareware for others to be used globally to the benefit of patient safety and quality improvement. (C) 2017 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Background The practice of prescribing vitamin E after surgery for scar prevention and treatment is widespread and increasingly popular among both the public and clinicians. However, very little evidence exists for this “ritual.” Objectives This review was undertaken to critically analyze the current literature about the effect of vitamin E on treating scars. Methods The Cochrane, Medline, and PubMed databases were searched based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). The studies and levels of recommendation were graded according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) criteria. Only prospective studies were included. Results Only six studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these six included studies, three reported a significant improvement in the cosmetic appearance of scars when using vitamin E: one study used topical vitamin E in white children as monotherapy, and two studies used vitamin E in an adult population as combination therapy. The other three selected studies showed no significant improvement in scar appearance when using topical vitamin E as monotherapy. Two of the six included studies reported adverse events of vitamin E application: contact dermatitis and increased incidence of itching and rash. Conclusions We conclude that there is not yet sufficient evidence that monotherapy with topical vitamin E has a significant beneficial effect on scar appearance to justify its widespread use. Further prospective studies with vitamin E monotherapy and/or combination therapy are warranted to draw better conclusions regarding the value of vitamin E in the management of scar healing. Level of Evidence 2![Graphic][1] Therapeutic [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif

Lymph node transfer has been performed to treat lymphedema for several years. The goal of this procedure is to provide a bridge between the lymphatic system distal and proximal to the lymph node dissection. There is a lack of consensus about the necessity of an additional vascular anastomosis for the transplanted lymph nodes. A systematic literature search in Cochrane Library database CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE of animal studies using lymph node transplantation with and without additional vascularization was performed in March 2016. The strategy used for the search was: (("Models, Animal"[Mesh]) AND (("Lymphedema"[Mesh]) OR "Lymph Nodes"[Mesh]) OR "Lymph Node Excision"[Mesh])) AND ((vascularized lymph node transfer) OR ((non-vascularized lymph node transfer) OR lymph node graft)). The primary outcomes were: survival of transplanted lymph node and lymphatic vessel regeneration. Sixteen studies were included. Vascularization and the use of growth factors were significantly associated with lymph node survival. Lymphatic vessels regeneration was independent from vascularization. According to the results of the current study, additional vascular anastomosis might improve the transplanted lymph node survival. Further studies in both experimental and clinical setting are needed in order to support it. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:32-36. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

OBJECTIVE: Impaired or delayed wound healing is a common health problem. However, it remains challenging to predict whether wounds in patients will heal without complication or will have a prolonged healing time. In this study, the authors developed an objective screening tool to assess wound healing using microscopic quantification of reepithelialization in a split-thickness skin graft wound model and used this tool to identify risk factors for defective wound healing. DESIGN: Thirty patients (16 male and 14 female) were included in this prospective study. Anterior thigh skin biopsies from the donor site region of partial-thickness skin grafts were dressed with moisture-retentive dressings, and biopsies were examined on days 0, 2, 5, and 10 postoperatively by microscopy. Images were then transferred to a computer for image analysis and epithelial measurements (epithelial thickness and total reepithelialized surface). The effects of gender, age, body mass index, and smoking behavior on these wound healing parameters were determined. RESULTS: The authors found comparable results for the computer and traditional measure methods. However, the time required to perform the measurements using the semiautomated computer method was less than half the time of the traditional method. Image capturing, enhancing, and analysis with the new method required approximately 2 minutes 30 seconds, whereas the traditional methods took up to 7 minutes per image. The total size of the reepithelialized surface (P = .047) and percentage of the biopsy resurfaced with epithelia (P = .011) at day 10 were both significantly higher in male patients compared with female patients. In patients younger than 55 years, reepithelialized areas were significantly thicker than in patients older than 55 years (P = .008), whereas the size of the reepithelialized surface showed no differences. No significant differences in reepithelialization parameters were found concerning body mass index and smoking behavior. CONCLUSIONS: Both male gender and older age impair reepithelialization rate and epithelial thickness in partial-thickness skin graft donor site wounds. In contrast, body mass index and smoking behavior have not been shown to be influencing factors on reepithelialization. Thus, microscopic quantification of reepithelialization might be a suitable method for predicting complications associated with wound healing.

Background Studies on the post-breast reconstruction period are primarily conducted with questionnaires, focussing on general outcome parameters such as cosmetic result, quality of life or satisfaction. However, to explore how women see, appreciate and behave towards their own bodies, a different research approach is required. In this study, we used an empirical phenomenological design to explore how women experience their body after breast reconstruction in everyday practice. Methods A qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design was used. A total of 18 semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with women who had undergone implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR, n = 5) and autologous breast reconstruction (ABR, n = 13). The interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed verbatim and subsequently coded and analysed using NVivo, a qualitative data analysis software program. Results A framework of six interrelated themes was identified: (1) ‘the cosmetic body, (2) the sensed and touched body, (3) the body in action, (4) the sexual body, (5) awareness and (6) sense of self'. We found that women who have undergone IBBR report relatively similar changes in body experiences on all six themes, whereas women who have undergone ABR report a broad variety in changed body experiences after the reconstruction. Conclusions The six identified themes indicate that various dimensions of body experience are at play for women after undergoing breast reconstruction. Women with IBBR have more similar body experiences compared with women who have undergone ABR. This knowledge can be implemented in counselling before surgery and can support shared treatment decisions.

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) camera systems are increasingly used for computerized volume calculations. In this study we investigate whether the Vectra XT 3D imaging system is a reliable tool for determination of breast volume in clinical practice. It is compared with the current gold standard in literature, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and current clinical practice (plastic surgeon's clinical estimation).Methods: Breast volumes of 29 patients (53 breasts) were evaluated. 3D images were acquired by Vectra XT 3D imaging system. Pre-existing breast MRI images were collected. Both imaging techniques were used for volume analyses, calculated by two independent investigators. Breast volume estimations were done by plastic surgeons during outpatient consultations. All volume measurements were compared using paired samples t-test, intra-class correlation coefficient, Pearson's correlation, and Bland-Altman analysis.Results: Two 3D breast volume measurements showed an excellent reliability (intra-class correlation coefficient: 0.991), which was comparable to the reliability of MRI measurements (intra-class correlation coefficient: 0.990). Mean (SD) breast volume measured with 3D breast volume was 454 cm(3) (157) and with MRI was 687 cm(3) (312). These volumes were significantly different, but a linear association could be found: y(MRI) = 1.58 x (3D) - 40. Three-dimensional breast volume was not significantly different from volume estimation made by plastic surgeons (472 cm(3) (69), P = 0.323).Conclusions: The 3D imaging system measures lower volumes for breasts than MRI. However, 3D measurements show a linear association with MRI and have excellent reliability, making them an objective and reproducible measuring method suitable for clinical practice.

Objective Visualization of the lymphatic system is necessary for both early diagnosis and associated treatments. A promising imaging modality is magnetic resonance lymphography (MRL). The aim of this review was to summarize different MRL protocols, to assess the clinical value in patients with peripheral lymphedema, and to define minimal requirements necessary for visualization of lymphatics. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library in December 2018. Studies performing MRL in patients with peripheral lymphedema or healthy participants were included. Study design, population, etiology, duration of lymphedema, clinical staging, contrast agent, dose, injection site, and technical magnetic resonance imaging details were analyzed. No meta-analyses were performed because of different study aims and heterogeneity of the study populations. Results Twenty-five studies involving 1609 patients with both primary lymphedema (n = 669) and secondary lymphedema (n = 657) were included. Upper and lower limbs were examined in 296 and 602 patients, respectively. Twenty-two studies used a gadolinium-based contrast agent that was injected intracutaneously or subcutaneously in the interdigital web spaces. Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted combined with T2-weighted protocols were most frequently used. T1-weighted images showed lymphatics in 63.3% to 100%, even in vessels with a diameter of ≥0.5 mm. Dermal backflow and a honeycomb pattern were clearly recognized. Conclusions MRL identifies superficial lymphatic vessels with a diameter of ≥0.5 mm with high sensitivity and specificity and accurately shows abnormal lymphatics and lymphatic drainage patterns. Therefore, MRL could be of clinical value in both early and advanced stages of peripheral lymphedema. Minimum requirements of an MRL protocol should consist of a gadolinium-based contrast-enhanced T1-weighted gradient-recalled echo sequence combined with T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, with acquisition at least 30 minutes after injection of contrast material.

Background: Robotic assistance in microsurgery could enhance human precision and dexterity to improve clinical outcomes. Because no robotic device has been designed primarily for microsurgery, the authors developed a dedicated microsurgical robotic system. This preclinical study investigates whether microsurgical anastomosis can be successfully completed on silicone vessels using a prototype of this new robotic system, and compares outcomes of robot-assisted versus conventional microsurgery.Methods: Three participants at different levels of microsurgical training completed 10 anastomoses by hand and 10 anastomoses with robotic assistance. Four blinded, experienced microsurgeons evaluated the quality of the microsurgical skills using a modified version of the Structured Assessment of Microsurgical Skills. Time to perform the anastomosis and adverse events were recorded.Results: The total time to perform the anastomoses with and without robotic assistance decreased to 35.1 minutes and 12.5 minutes, respectively, during the study. The overall performance and indicative skill of the Structured Assessment of Microsurgical Skills improved with the conventional method (from 2.8 to 3.6 and from 2.6 to 3.7, respectively) and the robot-assisted method (from 2.3 to 3.0 and from 2.3 to 3.1, respectively).Conclusions: It is feasible to complete anastomotic microsurgery on silicone vessels using the MicroSure robotic system. In comparison with the conventional method, time to perform the anastomosis was longer and quality of microsurgical skills was lower in the robot-assisted group. However, the robot-assisted performance showed steeper learning curves for both surgical time and domains of microsurgical skills. The encouraging results indicate further development of the system and (pre)clinical trials.

Background: Secondary lymphedema is a complication following breast cancer therapy and constitutes the main form of lymphedema in the western world. The purpose of the current study was to provide a clear overview of the genetic predisposition and secondary lymphedema. Methods and Results: A systematic search was performed between February and June 2017 in MEDLINE and Embase. Search terms included Genes, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Lymphedema, Breast Cancer Lymphedema, Secondary Lymphedema, Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema, and Humans. Only original articles regarding the possible relationship between genetic variation and the development of secondary lymphedema in humans were included in this review. A total of 459 records were collected. After removal of duplicates, non-topic-related publications, and records not presenting original data, six full-text studies were included. Associations between genetic factors and the development of secondary lymphedema were found for variations in HGF, MET, GJC2, IL1A, IL4, IL6, IL10, IL13, VEGF-C, NFKB2, LCP-2, NRP-2, SYK, VCAM1, FOXC2, VEGFR2, VEGFR3, and RORC. Conclusions: In patients with secondary lymphedema following breast cancer therapy, genetic variations were found in 18 genes. These compelling, although preliminary, findings may suggest a possible role for genetic predisposition in the development of lymphedema following breast cancer therapy. This notion may add to the classical, more mechanistic explanation of secondary lymphedema.

IMPORTANCE Autologous fat transfer (AFT or fat grafting) has become an invaluable tool for the correction of disfiguring deformities after breast cancer surgery. However, clinical and animal studies have shown conflicting results regarding its oncologic safety.OBJECTIVE To determine whether exposure to AFT vs conventional breast reconstruction is associated with increased rates of cancer relapse in patients with breast cancer.DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This matched cohort study involved retrospective medical record review to identify all patients in a local patient database receiving AFT between 2006 and 2014. Each AFT case was matched with a nonexposed control patient with similar baseline characteristics. The mean (SD) follow-up of patients receiving AFT was 9.3 (4.9) years including 5.0 (1.7) years following AFT. Control patients were followed up for a mean (SD) of 8.6 (1.8) years from the primary surgery. Patients were identified through the local patient database of the Tergooi Hospital in Hilversum, the Netherlands. A total of 287 patients with breast cancer (300 affected breasts) who received AFT for breast reconstruction after cancer were included in the intervention group. Each AFT case was matched with a respective control patient based on age, type of oncologic surgery, tumor invasiveness, and disease stage. In addition, individual AFT-control pairs were selected to have the same locoregional recurrence-free interval at baseline. Data were analyzed between 2016 and 2017.EXPOSURES Reconstruction with AFT vs conventional breast reconstruction or none.MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Primary end pointswere the cumulative incidences of oncologic events in AFT and control patients and their respective hazard ratios.RESULTS Of the 587 total patients, all were women and the mean age was 48.1 years for the patients undergoing AFT and 49.4 years for the control patients. Eight locoregional recurrences were observed in the treatment group (287 patients) and 11 among the control group (300 patients), leading to an unadjusted hazard ratio of 0.63 (95% CI, 0.25-1.60; P =.33). No increased locoregional recurrence rates were seen in relevant subgroups based on the type of oncological surgery, tumor invasiveness, or pathological stage. In addition, no increased risks with AFT were detected with respect to distant recurrences or breast cancer-specific mortality.CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE No significant differences in the locoregional recurrence rates between the AFT and control groups were observed after 5 years of follow-up. These findings confirm the results of previous studies; therefore, clinical evidence suggesting that AFT is associated with increased risk for cancer relapse is still lacking.