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Mechanical analysis of explanted silicone breast implants
D P Greenwald1, M Randolph, J W May
1University of South Florida, Tampa, USA.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Silicone gel breast implant shells weaken over time after implantation. This study found a significant negative correlation between implantation duration and shell strength, toughness, and elasticity.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
- Plastic Surgery Research
Background:
- Breast implants are widely used medical devices.
- Understanding the long-term integrity of implant materials is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of in vivo exposure on the mechanical properties of smooth-walled silicone gel breast implant shells.
Main Methods:
- Retrieved silicone gel breast implants (n=25) from 15 women after varying implantation times (23-216 months).
- Tested implant shell strips to failure using a computer-controlled tensiometer.
- Performed regression analysis to correlate implantation age with mechanical properties.
Main Results:
- A significant negative correlation was found between implantation duration and shell strength (p < 0.05).
- Implantation time also showed a significant negative correlation with shell toughness (p < 0.05) and shell elasticity (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- The in vivo environment significantly weakens silicone gel breast implant shells over time.
- Longer implantation periods are associated with reduced mechanical integrity of the implant shell.