Evaluation of the postoperative breast

Abstract

With widespread use of mammography for breast cancer screening, the number of surgical procedures has also increased. Overlapping with radiographic signs of malignancy, including masses, areas of asymmetric density and architectural distortion, microcalcifications, and skin thickening, postsurgical changes may make mammographic evaluation difficult. After tumor excision and irradiation where breast alterations are more profound and prolonged, the task of distinguishing recurrent tumor from scarring or fat necrosis is even more challenging. Mammograms after breast conservation therapy for carcinoma or after cosmetic surgery require correlation with physical findings and the surgical procedures that were performed. Responses of tissue to lumpectomy and radiation, such as breast edema and skin thickening, are most pronounced 6 to 12 months after treatment, gradually resolving within 1 to 3 years. Carefully tailored mammographic studies will promote the dual goal of early detection of local tumor recurrence and avoidance of misinterpreting postoperative and irradiation changes as malignancy. Sequential examinations should begin with a postoperative preradiation mammogram for residual carcinoma, particularly when microcalcifications have been present, followed by the baseline postradiation examination at 6 months with the next study 6 months later (1 year after initial treatment). Mammograms of the treated breast may be performed at intervals of 6 months until radiographic stability has been recognized. Annual studies thereafter are suggested. The contralateral, unaffected breast should be evaluated mammographically according to screening guidelines or clinical concerns. Mammograms performed after cosmetic and reconstructive procedures should be correlated with the surgical techniques and clinical history. Modified views for silicone implants can maximize visualization of breast parenchyma. Ultrasonography is a useful complement to mammography in demonstrating the origin of a palpable mass either within the implant or the breast parenchyma. In reduction mammoplasty, distorted architecture, parenchymal bands, tissue redistribution, and fat necrosis should be recognized. After mastectomy, myocutaneous reconstruction may be performed. Masses that develop within flap reconstructions most frequently represent fat necrosis, which, when calcifying oil cysts are seen, may have a characteristic radiographic appearance.