Introduction: Immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) techniques are rapidly evolving. We compared the results from a single-center implant IBR cohort between subpectoral and prepectoral implants with and without a mesh.
Methods: We analyzed all complications and grade 2-3 complications, the implant loss rate, the surgery time, the length of stay (LOS), patient satisfaction, the interval time to adjuvant therapy and cost, with a comparison between subpectoral and prepectoral implant IBR.
Results: Subpectoral implant IBR was carried out in 529 mastectomies (62.0%) and prepectoral in 324, with a significant increase in prepectoral placement in recent years. Mesh was used in 176 prepectoral placements (54.3%). Any grade of complication was reported in 147 mastectomies (17.2%), with a significantly higher rate for prepectoral implant IBR (p = 0.036). Regression analysis showed that prepectoral implant was not significantly associated with any grade of complication or with grade 2-3 complications. Prepectoral implant IBR was associated with a significantly shorter operative time and lower LOS. Grade 2-3 complications were significantly associated with lower satisfaction. Higher costs were significantly associated with the subpectoral placement and mesh. A complication rate predictive score identified five groups with a significant increase in grade 2-3 complications.
Conclusions: Prepectoral-M-IBR increased over time with no difference in complication rates compared to subpectoral-M-IBR. Prepectoral implant placement can be considered a safe technique.
Keywords: breast cancer; cost; post-surgical outcome; prepectoral implant; reconstruction; satisfaction.