Breast Reconstruction after Blunt Breast Trauma: Systematic Review and Case Report Using the Ribeiro Technique.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Blunt breast trauma, often from seat belts, is a rare but significant injury.
• Reconstruction of post-traumatic breast deformities presents unique challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate evidence on breast reconstruction following blunt breast trauma caused by seat belts.
• To present the first case of breast reconstruction using the Ribeiro technique for this specific injury pattern.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases.
• Inclusion of six studies published between 2010-2021, analyzing seven patients with Teo and Song class 2b deformities.
• Case presentation of a patient with type 2b breast deformity reconstructed with the inferior Ribeiro flap.

Main Results:

• Five patients underwent breast reduction using various pedicle techniques; only one reported complications.
• The presented case successfully utilized the lower Ribeiro pedicle for reconstruction without complications.
• The Ribeiro technique demonstrated feasibility and safety in treating post-traumatic breast deformities.

Conclusions:

• There is no established consensus for reconstructive treatment due to the rarity of seat belt-induced blunt breast trauma.
• Individualized surgical treatment is crucial for each patient.
• The Ribeiro technique is a viable and safe alternative for post-traumatic breast deformity reconstruction with promising long-term outcomes.