[Partial reconstruction after conservative treatment for breast cancer: classification of sequelae and treatment options]

Abstract

Most patients presenting with breast cancer are treated by breast conserving treatment (BCT). Some of these patients present with poor cosmetic results and ask for partial breast reconstruction. These reconstructions following BCT are presenting more frequently to plastic surgeons as a difficult management problem. We have defined and published a classification of the different cosmetic sequelae (CS) after BCT into three types. This classification helps to analyse these complex deformities aggravated by radiotherapy. Furthermore, our classification helps to choose between the different surgical techniques and propose the optimal option for their surgical correction. Our initial publications reported 35 and 85 patients: we have currently operated more than 150 cases of CS after BCT. Type-1 CS are defined by an asymmetry between the two breasts, with no distortion or deformity of the radiated breast. Type-2 CS are those with an obvious breast deformity, that can be corrected with a partial reconstruction of the breast. Type-3 CS are those with such a deformity that only a mastectomy with total reconstruction of the breast can be performed. Most of the patients present with type-2 CS, but are reluctant to undergo what they feel is a major reconstructive procedure: in a initial prospective series of 85 patients operated for CS after BCT, 48 (56.5%) had type-1 CS, 33 patients (38.8%) type-2 CS and four patients (4.7%) type-3 CS. Type-1 patients should be managed essentially by contralateral symmetrizing procedures. One should limit any surgery on the radiated breast, as a mammoplasty or an augmentation is at high risk of complications. Type-2 is the most difficult to manage and requires all the surgical armamentarium of breast reconstructive surgery. The insetting of a myocutaneous flap is often necessary and autologous fat grafting is a promising tool in selected cases. Type-3 CS requires mastectomy and immediate reconstruction with a myocutaneous flap. The major development though in the past 10 years has been the development of oncoplastic techniques at the time of the original tumour removal, in order to avoid most of type 2 and type 3 deformities. This paper reaffirms the validity of the Cosmetic Sequelae classification as a simple, practical guide for breast reconstructive surgeons. It discusses the various choices of reconstructive procedures available, the importance of "preventing" these CS and defining the role of the plastic surgeon in the management of these patients.