Does immediate breast reconstruction impact hospital readmission rates?
Although the numbers are still comparatively low, immediate breast reconstruction rates are rising. Immediate breast reconstruction is performed at the same time as the mastectomy and can be very beneficial for patients in many ways. Most notably, it spares many patients the psychological trauma of waking up without breasts.
But is it safe for patients?
Yes! And there are numerous studies continuing to show evidence that there is no difference in patient safety in immediate vs delayed reconstruction.
A recent study published in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery journal adds to this evidence by studying differences in readmission rates to the hospital post immediate breast reconstruction versus mastectomy alone.
The authors of the study identified 48,414 patients undergoing mastectomy only or with immediate reconstruction (including tissue expander/implants and autologous tissue reconstruction) for DCIS and invasive breast cancer from 2005 to 2009. The authors evaluated trends in immediate reconstruction and factors associated with thirty day unscheduled readmissions after reconstruction.
The results showed immediate reconstruction did not result in any higher readmission rates compared to patients undergoing mastectomy only.
With the growing evidence of the benefits surrounding immediate breast reconstruction it is so important women be told about their options before scheduling mastectomy. It may not be the choice for some and not all are candidates, but it is crucial everyone knows they have a choice and a voice in this journey.
You can find more information on this study at https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/Abstract/2015/07000/Patterns_and_Trends_in_Immediate_Postmastectomy.4.aspx
Author: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo and Courtney Floyd
With the growing evidence of the benefits surrounding immediate breast reconstruction it is so important women be told about their options before scheduling mastectomy. It may not be the choice for some and not all are candidates, but it is crucial everyone knows they have a choice and a voice in this journey.
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