Breast implant classification with MR imaging correlation: (CME available on RSNA link)

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Breast implant rupture is a common complication requiring accurate detection.
• Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is the gold standard for evaluating implant integrity.
• Diverse breast implant constructions necessitate a standardized classification for accurate interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an MR-imaging-oriented classification scheme for breast implants.
• To aid radiologists in diagnosing implant integrity and complications.
• To provide a framework for studying implant failure incidence, prevalence, and risk factors.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 4,014 patients with over 9,966 implants.
• Review of existing literature and primary documentation on breast implants.
• Correlation of MR imaging and mammographic appearances with explanted devices.

Main Results:

• A classification scheme encompassing 14 distinct breast implant types was established.
• The scheme details the MR and mammographic appearance of various implant types.
• Historical context of breast augmentation and reconstruction is provided.

Conclusions:

• This classification scheme enhances diagnostic accuracy by familiarizing imagers with diverse implant appearances.
• It facilitates better understanding of expected imaging findings for various breast implant types.
• The scheme enables improved data stratification for research on implant failure and patient outcomes.