This retrospective study utilizes 3D imaging and mammometrics to compare implant-based breast reconstruction with and without the use of ADM. Previous studies have suggested improved aesthetic outcomes with the use of ADM, but none have been able to quantify this difference. Images were obtained at early and late time points following the expander-implant exchange procedure. Measurements included the point of maximum projection, the superior, inferior, medial and lateral volumetric distribution, and the distance from the point of maximum projection to the inframammary fold along the breast meridian. The patients' demographic information, implant size, and complication rate between the two cohorts were similar. In the early post-operative period, the patients with ADM demonstrated higher medial pole volume; however, this difference did not persist in the late post-operative period. Patients with ADM demonstrated a small but statistically significant greater point of maximum projection and length of lower pole curvature in comparison with the non-ADM cohort. In summary, the results of this study demonstrate improved mammometric measurements when ADM is used in implant-based breast reconstruction, supporting superior aesthetic outcomes in early and late post-operative time points.
Level of evidence iii: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
Keywords: 3D imaging; Acellular dermal matrix; Aesthetics; Breast reconstruction; Mammometrics.