Factors Influencing Recurrence in Medial Breast Cancer Tumors After Skin Sparing Mastectomy and Immediate Breast Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Skin sparing mastectomy (SSM) with immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) has been established as a safe option for curative-intent surgical resection. Prior studies have shown that medial location of the primary tumor is associated with increased risk of local recurrence. The purpose of this study is to determine the factors associated with recurrence and survival in individuals with breast cancers located in the inner quadrants (medial) who underwent SSM with IBR.

METHODS: A retrospective chart review was done on individuals with medial breast cancer who received SSM with IBR in British Columbia between 1980 and 2012.

RESULTS: Of 136 individuals with medial breast cancer undergoing SSM with IBR, 27.9% experienced local recurrence and 42.6% overall recurrence. Factors associated with recurrence were T-stage (44.8 vs. 22.4% with T2 disease, P = .02), transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap reconstruction (48.3 vs. 29.5%, P = .00395), prior breast surgery (87.9 vs. 63%, P = .002), and prior radiation therapy (74.1 vs. 38.5%, P < .0001). LR was associated with higher mortality (OR 2.78, 95% CI: 1.26-6.09).

CONCLUSION: For patients with medial tumors undergoing SSM with IBR, potential risk factors for recurrence are T-stage, TRAM flap reconstruction, prior breast surgery, and prior radiation therapy. Local recurrence is associated with poor survival.