Reduction of capsular formation around silicone breast implants by D-penicillamine in rats

In a controlled study in 109 female rats we evaluated the effect of soluble D-Penicillamine in doses of 10 mg/ml or 100 mg/ml on capsular formation around semipermeable 2 cm3 mini-prostheses. This was compared with methylprednisolone 1 mg/ml or 10 mg/ml, and a group given saline served as controls. The drugs were injected into the lumen. Capsular wet weight and capsular tensile strength were measured after a period of 40 days. Rats given D-Penicillamine showed a significant, dose-dependent, reduction in wet weight and tensile strength compared with the saline group. There was no significant difference between the groups given D-Penicillamine and those given steroids. Topical treatment with diffused D-Penicillamine can significantly reduce the amount of capsular formation around silicone implants. This drug, which is highly specific for the systemic treatment of fibrotic diseases, should be evaluated further to use in reducing capsular formation.