Analysis of the Effects of Breast Reconstruction in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Radiotherapy after Mastectomy

Background Immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy and delayed breastreconstruction with post-supplementary treatment are the two types of breast reconstructioncurrently performed when treating breast cancer. Post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT)not only reduces local recurrence but also improves overall survival. However, the complicationsand survival rates associated with PMRT need to be clear when determining the timing ofbreast reconstruction. Accordingly, we investigated the optimal timing of breast reconstructionby observing patients who underwent mastectomy followed by PMRT, based on their overallhealth and aesthetic satisfaction.Methods We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients who underwent breast reconstructionwith PMRT between November 2004 and November 2010. We collected data regarding thevarious methods of mastectomy, and the modality of adjuvant therapy, such as chemotherapy,hormone therapy, and radiotherapy. Telephone interviews were conducted to study the generaland aesthetic satisfaction.Results Patients who received PMRT after breast reconstruction showed a greater complicationrate than those undergoing breast reconstruction after PMRT (P=0.02). Aesthetic satisfactionwas significantly higher in the groups undergoing breast reconstruction after PMRT (P=0.03).Patients who underwent breast reconstruction before PMRT developed complications morefrequently, but they expressed greater aesthetic satisfaction with the treatment.Conclusions It is recommended that the complication rates and aesthetic satisfaction afterbreast reconstruction be carefully considered when determining the optimal timing forradiotherapy.