Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that the use of acellular dermal matrices in prosthetic breast reconstruction, revision or augmentation may be associated with an increased risk of complications. This article will report the results of a potential alternative, using a new long-term resorbable synthetic matrix in these cases.
Methods
A retrospective study was performed evaluating 11 primary breast reconstructions (19 breasts), 43 secondary reconstructions (77 breasts), 3 augmentation, 7 augmentation mastopexys (6 breasts), and 5 mastopexys (10 breasts) in 62 patients using TIGR Matrix Surgical Mesh.
Results
Follow-up ranged from 9.4 to 26.1 months with an average follow-up of 16.5 months. The average age was 54 years. The number of patients who had prior radiation was 9 (14.5%). Four patients (6.5%) were smokers. Postoperative breast complications included necrosis of two flaps (1.8%), four infection/extrusions (3.6%), two relapses of inframammary fold/malposition (1.8%), and two with rippling (1.8%). Other complications included six cases of asymmetry that required a corrective procedure. In a variety of breast surgery cases, very good aesthetic results were achieved.
Conclusion
The long-term absorbable synthetic TIGR Matrix Surgical Mesh, shows potential when used as temporary reinforcement in patients undergoing breast reconstruction or breast surgery revisions and in primary aesthetic procedures, and it appears to be a viable alternative to the use of acellular dermal matrices.