ABSTRACT
Radiotherapy is a vital component in the treatment of breast cancer, with benefits in decreasing local recurrence and improving long-term survival. However, deleterious effects of radiation on tissues imply higher rates of complications. We performed a study of late reconstructions, operated in the year 2018, where breast implants or expanders were used in irradiated patients. The study identified a complication rate of 54% for a total of 22 patients and a 78% rate of complications in pre-irradiated patients. Exposure to radiotherapy presented a three-fold increased risk of complications in this study. The study found similar results to the current literature.
Keywords: Reconstruction; Radiotherapy; Breast