Outcomes of Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Role of Anatomic Measurements

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) offers improved cosmesis for women undergoing mastectomy; however, there is increased risk for complications with this technique. We sought to determine if standard anatomic measurements could be used to predict complications of NSM. We performed a retrospective review of NSM for which anthropometric measurements of sternal notch to nipple distance, base width, and inframammary fold to nipple distance were available, and compared outcomes by anatomic measurements. We identified 102 cases of NSM with measurements available for study performed in 55 patients. Areola necrosis was associated with base width of greater than 15 cm (42.9% vs 10.9%, P = 0.02), infections were more likely with inframammary fold to nipple distance of more than 10 cm (29.2% vs 10.3%, P = 0.02), hematomas were more likely with sternal notch to nipple distance more than 30 cm (22.2% vs 4.3%, P = 0.03), and delayed wound healing was more likely with sternal notch to nipple distance of more than 25 cm (10.3% vs 1.6%, P = 0.03). There were no significant differences in nipple necrosis, skin flap necrosis, wound care requirements, or operative intervention based on anatomic measurement. Standard anatomic measurements are inconsistent predictors of outcome from NSM and should not be used alone to exclude attempts at NSM.