ABSTRACT
Objective:To introduce a surgical technique of implant-based immediate breast reconstruction using the "latent orifice" procedure after skin-sparing mastectomy and to investigate the clinical value of this procedure.Methods:Clinical data of 72 patients who underwent immediate breast reconstruction using the "latent orifice" procedure (we placed the silicone prosthesis in a "latent orifice" consisting of fascia and underlying muscles) from Jan. 2016 to Dec. 2019 were collected. Characteristics of surgical technique and the effect of the reconstruction surgery were analyzed.Results:70 patients underwent nipple-areola complex sparing mastectomy (NSM) . Two patients’ nipples were resected due to intraoperative frozen pathology suggesting carcinoma existing in the nipples. The nipple epidermal necrosis occurred in 3 patients. No seroma, incision infection or capsular contracture occurred. According to the evaluation scale, the overall aesthetic score was 9.39 points. The average score of each subscale was: 9.57 points for breast volume, 9.43 for breast contour, 9.84 for placement of implant, 9.38 for scars, 9.27 for lower pole projection and 9.21 for inframammary fold definition. BREAST-Q questionnaires were filled by patients. Scores of psychosocial well-being ranged from 62 to 93 points, with the median score of 77 points. Satisfaction with breasts scores ranged from 58 to 100 points, with the median score of 71 points.Conclusion:The "latent orifice" procedure is a simple, safe, practicable, aesthetic and satisfying type of immediate implant-based breast reconstruction, which is worth practicing and promoting.