posters International Association for Breast Cancer Research 2014

Rigid reconstruction of the chest wall after sternectomy and modified radical mastectomy (#46)

Beatrice, Fang Ju Koh 1 , Tina, Puay Theng Koh 1 , Heng Nung Koong 1
  1. Singapore General Hospital, Singapore

Bone is the most common site of metastasis in patients with locally advanced breast cancer. Sternal involvement in patients with breast cancer is relatively uncommon and these patients have been shown to have low morbidity and mortality post chest wall resection. In the past few years, various techniques and materials have been used to reconstruct the sternum. We describe our experience in chest wall reconstruction after sternectomy and modified radical mastectomy in patients with breast cancer and solitary sternal metastasis. The sternal defect was reconstructed using a 0.50 mm thick Polypropylene mesh impregnated with methylmethacrylate. The use of a Polypropylene mesh provides excellent functional and cosmetic results without complications during the inpatient stay and outpatient follow up period. Methylmethacrylate provides adequate protection for the intra-thoracic organs and the flexibility of the mesh allows free movement of the chest wall. This technique is simple, cost-effective and easily reproducible.