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ESPRAS Survey on Breast Reconstruction in Europe
Riccardo E Giunta1, Emma Hansson2, Carolina Andresen3
1Abteilung für Hand-, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München.
Handchirurgie, Mikrochirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Handchirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Mikrochirurgie Der Peripheren Nerven Und Gefasse : Organ Der V
|March 30, 2021
Summary
Breast reconstruction practices vary across Europe, with a notable demand for unified European guidelines. This survey highlights inconsistencies in standards and calls for multi-center trials to establish best practices for equitable patient access.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Aesthetic Surgery
- Oncologic Reconstruction
Background:
- The European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ESPRAS) identified a need to harmonize breast reconstruction standards in Europe.
- This initiative aims to enhance the role and consistency of plastic surgeons across the continent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the current status and trends in breast reconstruction practices across Europe.
- To investigate potential regional variations in breast reconstruction, focusing on equity and patient access.
- To identify disparities in practice and gauge the demand for standardized European guidelines.
Main Methods:
- A large-scale, web-based questionnaire was distributed to experienced consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeons across Europe.
- Participants were identified through the ESPRAS Executive Committee and national delegates.
- Responses were analyzed and contextualized with existing evidence-based literature.
Main Results:
- Thirty-three participants from 29 European countries contributed to the study.
- Breast reconstruction incidence is relatively low in Europe, similar to North America.
- While access and equity were generally even, geographic regions influenced reconstruction techniques. Radiotherapy practices varied significantly between countries.
Conclusions:
- A significant lack of consistency in international practice patterns for breast reconstruction was observed across European nations.
- There is a strong, expressed demand for consistent European guidance and standardized operating procedures.
- Further large-scale, multi-center European clinical trials are necessary to address identified inconsistencies and define optimal practices.
