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Health risks for women with breast implants
1Sinai-Samaritan Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI.
The Nurse Practitioner
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Breast implants pose health risks like capsule contracture and reduced mammogram accuracy. While not increasing breast cancer risk, silicone may cause immune changes, and polyurethane byproducts require further safety investigation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Toxicology
- Immunology
Background:
- Women with breast prostheses face numerous health risks, many previously unrecognized.
- Regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration have restricted device use pending safety evaluations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the known and potential health risks associated with breast prostheses.
- To inform patients and healthcare providers about complications and ongoing safety research.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on breast implant complications.
- Analysis of reported adverse effects and toxicological data.
Main Results:
- Capsule contracture is the most common complication.
- Breast implants do not elevate breast cancer risk but impair mammography.
- Silicone may trigger immunologic issues (e.g., scleroderma); polyurethane byproducts' toxicity is under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Breast prostheses present significant health considerations requiring ongoing research.
- Patient awareness and further investigation into chemical toxicity are crucial for safety.