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Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction
Published on: May 17, 2024
Nipple-sparing mastectomy. Preliminary results
1Plastic Surgery Unit, Department of Surgical, Radiological and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Perugia, Policlinico Monteluce, Perugia, Italy. giastar@alice.it
Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research : CR
|February 22, 2007
Summary
Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) offers improved cosmetic outcomes for breast cancer patients. This technique preserves the nipple-areola complex (NAC) and allows for immediate reconstruction, with all patients achieving cancer-free status post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Plastic Surgery
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is a surgical technique combining mastectomy with nipple-areola complex (NAC) preservation.
- Immediate reconstruction following NSM aims to enhance cosmetic results for patients undergoing total mastectomy.
- This procedure involves intraoperative pathological assessment of the nipple tissue core.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) with immediate reconstruction.
- To assess the oncological safety and cosmetic results of NSM in a selected patient cohort.
- To determine the complication rates associated with NSM and immediate reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- A prospective clinical research protocol was followed for patient selection.
- Ten patients underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) with immediate reconstruction between January 2003 and June 2004.
- Patients were meticulously selected by a multidisciplinary team, and all received postoperative radiotherapy to the NAC.
Main Results:
- Histological analysis revealed invasive carcinoma in 3 cases and in situ carcinoma in the remaining 7.
- Complications included superficial NAC necrosis in 2 patients and temporary loss of NAC sensitivity in 4; one patient developed a hematoma.
- No cases of breast asymmetry were reported, and all patients achieved cancer-free status post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is a viable option for selected patients requiring mastectomy.
- The procedure, when combined with immediate reconstruction and radiotherapy, can achieve favorable oncological and cosmetic results.
- Careful patient selection and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for successful NSM outcomes.

