Correlation between MRI results and intraoperative findings in patients with silicone breast implants.

Background: Silicone gel breast implants may silently rupture without detection. This has been the main reason for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the augmented or reconstructed breast. The aim of the present study was to investigate the accuracy of MRI for implant rupture.

Analysis of patient satisfaction and donor-site morbidity after different types of breast reconstruction.

Background And Aims: Breast reconstruction has been shown to improve quality of life. However, factors involved in long-term patient satisfaction are largely unknown. Our aim was to evaluate patient satisfaction and donor-site morbidity in five types of breast reconstruction.

Hypertrophy of the breast: a problem of beauty or health?

Background: Despite the complex health burden for women with breast hypertrophy, medical directors of health insurance companies are not convinced that this procedure is of medical benefit for patients. Therefore, coverage of cost by the health insurance companies is no longer guaranteed. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the influence of breast weight on the physical and psychological morbidity of women and to prove the medical necessity of reduction mammaplasty.

Crucial aspects of smoking in wound healing after breast reduction surgery.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of cigarette smoking on wound-healing in patients undergoing breast reduction.

Methods: In our prospective study, 50 patients (25 smokers, 25 nonsmokers) scheduled for breast reduction have been evaluated. Urine cotinine levels were measured to analyse perioperative smoking habits.

Management strategies for peripheral iatrogenic nerve lesions.

For diagnostic or therapeutic reasons, various medical procedures may cause iatrogenic injury of peripheral nerves. The authors treated 82 patients for iatrogenic nerve injury between 1990 and 2000. The main reasons for iatrogenic nerve injury were surgical failure, traction or pressure lesions, hematoma, or inadequate positioning of the patient.