Oncological outcome after immediate breast reconstruction for invasive breast cancer: a long-term study

Immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) was implemented in 1990. Patients operated on for invasive breast cancer were assessed for oncological outcome after a minimum of 5-year follow-up. The study had a form of a retrospective analysis of 203 consecutive patients. The indications for IBR were always discussed in multidisciplinary case conferences. The pectoralis major fascia was left in place. The implant technique dominated. The break down by tumor stage was T1 tumors in 122 cases, T2 in 72, and T3 tumors in nine. Preoperative chemotherapy was given to 21 patients for tumors > 4 cm. Thirteen patients, or 6.5%, developed a local recurrence and seven are still alive with their reconstructed breast after excisions, chemo- and radiation therapy. Most (11) of the 13 recurrences occurred within 24 months after IBR. The recurrence rate remained low with this surgery plus reconstruction approach and IBR is therefore considered a safe procedure when implemented by a multidisciplinary team. Most recurrences appear within 2 years after reconstruction.