The effect of human recombinant epidermal growth factor on capsule contraction in an irradiated rat model

• Published in: European journal of plastic surgery Vol. 46; no. 3; pp. 295 - 304
• Main Authors: Tuluy, Yavuz, Evrenos, Mustafa Kürşat, Yoleri, Levent, Temiz, Peyker, Ölmezoğlu, Ali
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin/Heidelberg Springer Berlin Heidelberg 01.06.2023
• Subjects: Experimental Study; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Plastic Surgery; Rat model; Capsular contraction; Radiation therapy; Recombinant human epidermal growth factor
• ISSN: 1435-0130; 1435-0130
• DOI: 10.1007/s00238-023-02055-3

Background Breast implants are commonly used in plastic surgery for aesthetic and reconstructive purposes. One of the most important complications of this surgery is capsule contraction. Methods In this study, it is aimed to evaluate the effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rh-EGF) on capsule contraction in the model of capsule contraction provided by radiation therapy after silicone block placement in rats. The results were evaluated by histopathologic examination. Twenty-four rats were divided into 4 groups. In the group A, rats were followed for 63 days without radiation therapy and rh-EGF. In the groups B, C, and D, a total of 19.56 Gy radiation therapy was administrated in two fractions with an interval of 1 week. Forty-two days after the last radiation therapy, 3 doses of rh-EGF were given to the group C and 6 doses of rh-EGF to the group D with an interval of 1 day. Rats were sacrificed on the 63rd day of the study. Results In the study, no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in chronic inflammation, eosinophil, and inflammatory cell amount. Neutrophil levels, collagen amount, vascular proliferation, and capsule thicknesses were examined, and it was observed that they were significantly increased in the experimental groups compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference between the experimental groups. Conclusions Different rh-EGF doses were used in the study, and no significant effect was observed on capsule contraction. Different doses and durations may be considered to evaluate the effectiveness. Level of evidence: Not gradable