Multimodality imaging of breast tissue expanders: types, MRI safety and complications

Mastectomy remains a common surgical treatment for breast cancer, often followed by breast reconstruction to mitigate the psychological impact. Among reconstruction techniques, the use of tissue expanders is a safe, cost-effective, and widely adopted method, typically involving a two-stage surgical approach. These devices gradually stretch the skin and tissues post-mastectomy to prepare for permanent implant placement. This review outlines the imaging characteristics of breast tissue expanders, emphasizing their types-based on positioning, lumen configuration, and valve design-and associated complications. Special attention is given to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) safety, with a focus on potential contraindications associated with magnetic or metallic components in specific expanders. Advances such as radio frequency identification (RFID) expanders offer safer MRI compatibility. Multimodal imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, MRI, X-ray, and CT, plays a crucial role in assessing expander integrity, positioning, and complications such as rupture. Understanding expander types and imaging appearances is essential for accurate diagnosis and safe imaging practices in postoperative breast cancer care.