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Case Reports
. 2008 Jan;101(1):39-40.
doi: 10.1258/jrsm.2007.070032.

Too close for comfort: accidental burn following subcutaneous mastectomy and immediate implant reconstruction

R Seth  1 , M J Lamyman, A Athanassopoulos, M Tyler
Affiliations
Case Reports

Too close for comfort: accidental burn following subcutaneous mastectomy and immediate implant reconstruction

R Seth et al. J R Soc Med. 2008 Jan.

Abstract

We report a case of an accidental burn from a self-applied heat pack following subcutaneous mastectomy and implant reconstruction. Such patients are at increased risk of accidental burns not only due to loss of protective sensation, but also because of the thinner, less vascular overlying skin. We have changed our practice so that all patients undergoing breast reconstructive surgery are warned postoperatively to protect the skin from externally applied heat sources.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Full thickness burn to reconstructed breast
Figure 2
Figure 2
Exposed implant following tangential excision
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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    1. Courtiss EH, Goldwyn RM. Breast sensation before and after plastic surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg 1976;58: 1-13 - PubMed

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