A short-term follow-up of implant based breast reconstruction using a titanium-coated polypropylene mesh (TiLoop(®) Bra)

• Published in: European journal of surgical oncology Vol. 38; no. 12; pp. 1225 - 1230
• Main Authors: Dieterich, M, Reimer, T, Dieterich, H, Stubert, J, Gerber, B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.12.2012
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Breast Implants; Breast Neoplasms - surgery; Coated Materials, Biocompatible; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Mammaplasty - methods; Mastectomy; Polypropylenes; Prosthesis Design; Retrospective Studies; Surgical Mesh; Time Factors; Titanium; Treatment Outcome; Young Adult
• ISSN: 1532-2157
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2012.08.026

A new approach for implant based breast reconstruction (IBBR) is the use of a titanium-coated polypropylene mesh (TCPM) as an alternative to acellular dermal matrix (ADM). This TCPM has a good biocompatibility and can be used similarly to ADM. The aim of this study is to discuss indications, limitations and complications of TCPM in IBBR. A retrospective analysis of 42 patients undergoing immediate or delayed IBBR using a TCPM was performed. Primary endpoints were incidence of infection and expander/implant with mesh removal due to infected fluid collection or extrusion. In two patients, mild hematoma, seroma or infection occurred. Skin necrosis or capsular contraction was observed in one patient. Mesh explantation was needed in 3 cases. These events were higher among the first cases and in patients with postoperative skin infection (p = 0.003). In selected patients with adequate soft tissue cover TCPM seems to be a helpful tool for implant stabilization in terms of lateral stabilization and fixation of the musculus pectoralis major. In comparison to ADM, TCPM is cheaper and initial results are promising, but further follow-up data are necessary. In patients with poor soft tissue cover ADM should be used.