Weight to volume conversion: an easy and practical breast volume estimation

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Accurate breast volume estimation is critical for achieving symmetry in breast reconstruction.
• Converting resected breast tissue weight to volume can provide precise measurements.
• This study introduces a mathematical constant (k) for estimating breast volume from weight.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate a mathematical constant (k) for estimating breast volume from resected tissue weight.
• To establish an easy and accurate method for breast volume calculation in reconstructive surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 89 female breast cancer patients undergoing surgery.
• Classification of mammographic density using BI-RADS (a, b, c, d).
• Calculation of breast density number and mathematical constant (k), followed by validation against measured volumes.

Main Results:

• Breast densities and constant (k) values varied by BI-RADS classification.
• No significant differences were found between measured and calculated breast volumes (95% CI).
• A high correlation coefficient (r = 0.984) indicates strong agreement.

Conclusions:

• A novel method using a mathematical constant (k) enables accurate breast volume estimation from tissue weight.
• This technique simplifies volume calculation, aiding in precise breast reconstruction.
• Combining tissue weight and mammographic density offers an effective approach for volume estimation.