Plast Reconstr Surg. 2022 Sep 15. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000009723. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Sensory recovery of the breast is a compelling frontier in comprehensive post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. This study uses the BREAST-Q Sensation Module to evaluate the differences in women who underwent an alloplastic versus autologous breast reconstruction.
METHODS: Women with a history of breast cancer and post-mastectomy breast reconstruction were recruited through the Love Research Army, United States. Participants completed the BREAST-Q Sensation Module (3 scales: Breast Symptoms, Breast Sensation, Quality of Life Impact). Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were used to compare outcomes between women undergoing alloplastic or autologous breast reconstruction.
RESULTS: Of 1204 respondents, 933 were included for analysis, 620 (66.5%) underwent alloplastic reconstruction and 313 (33.5%) underwent autologous reconstruction. The average age and BMI were 59.2 years (±10.1) and 26 (±5) respectively. Autologous reconstruction patients scored an average of 6.1 points (95% CI 3.9-8.4, p<0.001) and 5.3 points (95% CI 2.5-8.1, p=0.001) higher on the Breast Symptoms and Quality of Life Impact scales, respectively. No difference (0.0 points, 95% CI -2.9-3.0, p=0.75) was observed for the Breast Sensation scale. Increased time since reconstruction had a positive impact on Breast Symptoms scores. Radiotherapy negatively affected scores on both Breast Symptoms and Quality of Life Impact scales.
CONCLUSIONS: Autologous breast reconstruction may be associated with fewer abnormal breast sensations and better sensation-related quality of life in comparison to alloplastic reconstruction. This information can be incorporated during preoperative patient counseling when discussing reconstructive options.
PMID:36103650 | DOI:10.1097/PRS.0000000000009723
