Removal of Polyurethane Implants

Polyurethane (PU) implants are associated with great difficulties in extraction if secondary surgery is needed. The published data are contradictory, often misleading, making the decision for the secondary surgery complicated, the time period and the procedure itself not optimal, thus negatively influencing the final result.

Typical videos of PU implant removal in different periods after primary surgeries with polyurethane implants were selected for the study. The videos show the strength and extent of the tissue ingrowth and the manipulations needed for implant extraction in different periods from the initial procedure. Classifications of the types of adhesion and adhesion patterns are introduced.

The data provided in this article facilitate the decision-making process if secondary surgery is indicated. Secondary surgery should be performed in the first 30 days after the initial surgery or in the period after 6 months. The optimal layer for removal of the PU implant depends on the time after the primary surgery. The polyurethane implant should be exchanged after 1 month if the properties of the polyurethane foam are expected to be used.

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