Incision Choices in Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: A Comparative Analysis of Outcomes and Evolution of a Clinical Algorithm

What is it about?

Nipple-sparing mastectomy is a technique in which mastectomy is performed for cancer or high risk for breast cancer while the nipple and areola are preserved completely. This is a newer technique after which implant or autologous breast reconstruction may proceed. Outcomes with nipple-sparing mastectomy remain to be completely defined. Various incisions may be employed with nipple-sparing mastectomy. In this study, we examine outcomes with the 5 most commonly utilized incisions. We found that all incisions may be safely employed in the correct patients and provide an algorithm for choosing the right incision. Incisions in the breast crease significantly protected against complications. Larger incisions trended towards increasing complications but did not reach significance. This information can be used by breast and plastic surgeons to continue to improve outcomes in patients treated with nipple-sparing mastectomy.

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