Autologous breast reconstruction following surgery for breast cancer in a low resource country

Abstract

Background: Mastectomy remains an important treatment modality for breast cancer. One of the factors responsible for late presentation of patients with breast cancer in many low resource countries is the fear of having the breast removed. Studies have supported the role of reconstruction in cancer treatment by demonstrating its positive influence on psychosocial and emotional well-being.

Objective: We present our experience with immediate and delayed breast reconstruction with autologous tissue at the University College Hospital Ibadan, Nigeria.

Design setting: This was a retrospective study of breast cancer patients who had immediate and delayed reconstruction with autologous tissue following mastectomy over a five-year period from September 2015 to August 2019 at our institution.

Materials and methods: Following evaluation of the patients, the options available for the breast reconstruction was discussed with them. The biodata of the patients, the outcome of each surgery and other relevant information were extracted from the case notes.

Results: Eight reconstructions in 7 patients who had mastectomy for breast cancer were included. Unilateral reconstructions were done in 6 patients and a bilateral reconstruction in one patient. All the patients had satisfactory outcome.Conclusion: Careful selection of donor site based on patient’s habitus is necessary for satisfactory outcome. Post mastectomy reconstruction of the breast should be included during counselling of breast cancer patients at the time of their diagnosis

Recommendation: Advocacy for breast reconstruction and Interdisciplinary care of breast cancer patients with oncologic surgeons should be encouraged in order to increase the uptake for breast reconstruction surgeries.