Trends in Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

A significant rise in reconstructions was driven largely by increased use of implant-based techniques.

The quality-of-life and psychosocial benefits of breast reconstruction following mastectomy are well known. But recent trends data regarding the use of the procedure are lacking.

Investigators have now analyzed an employment-based, medical-claims database to evaluate breast reconstruction in 20,560 women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer in the U.S. from 1998 to 2007. Results were as follows:

Overall, 56% of patients received breast reconstruction during the 10-year period; usage rose significantly from 46% to 63% (P<0.001) and was driven mostly by increased use of implant-based techniques.
The proportion of patients who received reconstruction with autologous tissue decreased from 56% to 25% (P<0.001).
Approximately 20% of reconstruction…

Reviewing Author

Henry Mark Kuerer, MD, PhD, FACS

Disclosures

Speaker's BureauPhysicians’ Education Resource, LLC

RoyaltiesMcGraw-Hill Professional; UpToDate, Inc.

Editorial BoardsAnnals of Surgical Oncology

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Breast Surgeons (Chair, Publications Committee)