Silicone gel granuloma following compressive mammography

Silicone implant rupture is well recognized, particularly with the thin-walled implants inserted some years ago. On occasions a chronic granulomatous inflammation has been noted if silicone globules have infiltrated the tissues. The rupture may occur apparently spontaneously or after trauma, including attempts at external closed capsulotomy. The case report presented in this article documents rupture and dissemination of silicone caused by compressive mammography. Recent practice suggests that in order to enhance the image produced by mammography, particularly in the presence of the masking of a silicone implant, extreme compression is the preferred technique but perhaps should be regarded with some caution in patients with breast implants.