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Updated: May 13, 2026
15:48
Tracking the Mammary Architectural Features and Detecting Breast Cancer with Magnetic Resonance Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: December 15, 2014
Multimodality imaging of breast tissue expanders: Types, MRI Safety and Complications
Soraia Quaranta Damião1, Bianca Miranda Lago1, Laura Barbosa de Melo1
1Department of Imaging, A.C. Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, Brazil. 211 Professor Antônio Prudente, Liberdade, São Paulo, SP, Brasil, 01509-001.
The British Journal of Radiology
|May 11, 2026
Summary
Breast reconstruction uses tissue expanders after mastectomy. This review details their imaging, complications, and MRI safety, crucial for patient care.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Mastectomy for breast cancer often necessitates reconstruction to address psychological distress.
- Tissue expanders are a common, safe, and cost-effective method for breast reconstruction, typically involving a two-stage process.
- These devices gradually prepare tissues for permanent implant placement after mastectomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the imaging characteristics of breast tissue expanders.
- To highlight various expander types based on positioning, lumen, and valve design.
- To discuss associated complications and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) safety considerations.
Main Methods:
- Review of imaging modalities including mammography, ultrasound, MRI, X-ray, and CT.
- Analysis of expander types and their specific imaging appearances.
- Evaluation of MRI safety, focusing on contraindications and advancements like RFID expanders.
Main Results:
- Different expander types exhibit distinct imaging features.
- Multimodal imaging is vital for assessing expander integrity, positioning, and detecting complications like rupture.
- Certain expanders pose MRI risks due to magnetic or metallic components, while newer designs enhance MRI compatibility.
Conclusions:
- Understanding breast tissue expander types and their imaging appearances is critical for accurate diagnosis.
- Safe and effective postoperative care relies on appropriate imaging practices and awareness of MRI safety.
- This knowledge aids clinicians in managing patients undergoing breast reconstruction with tissue expanders.
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