The purpose of this study is to compare two methods for reinforcement of the abdominal donor-site after breast reconstruction with the pedicled TRAM-flap. Reinforcement of the abdominal donor-site is performed, after randomization, with either a porcine derived biological mesh or a synthetic mesh. The patient and the investigator is blinded. The aim is to identify the most optimal method for reinforcement of the abdominal donor-site and thereby contribute to fast and complete rehabilitation of women undergoing breast reconstruction with the pedicled TRAM-flap after surgical removal of the breast tissue due to breast cancer, precursors to breast cancer or an increased risk of developing breast cancer and thereby following preventive removal of the breast tissue. The patients visit the outpatient clinic 4, 12 and 24 months after operation and abdominal wall function, the donor site morbidity, the frequency of postoperative complications, the aesthetic appearance of the reconstructed breast and the abdominal wall and costs are evaluated.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
29
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital
Aarhus C, Aarhus, Denmark
Abdominal wall function change
Strength of abdominal wall is assessed by a standardized physical examination developed in collaboration with physiotherapists. A dynamometer is used to get an exact value of muscle strength.
Time frame: Change from before surgery to 12 and 24 months after surgery
Abdominal donor site morbidity
Bulge * Definition: visible abdominal contour abnormality, without the presence of a fascial defect, with or without the need for surgical correction. * Assessed after 3-4, 12 and 24 months by clinical examination and after 12 and 24 months by CT scanning including the Valsalva maneuver Hernia * Definition: abdominal wall bulge with the presence of a palpable fascial defect and/or a fascial defect found during an additional correcting surgical procedure or by CT scanning. * Assessed after 3-4, 12 and 24 months by clinical examination and after 12 and 24 months by CT scanning including the Valsalva maneuver Abdominal donor site correction procedure (within 24 months) Pain/ discomfort * Assessed after 3-4, 12 and 24 months by * DoloTest® * Study specific questionnaire regarding postoperative assessment of abdominal pain/ discomfort including effect on daily life activities and ability to perform sport
Time frame: 24 months
Aesthetics at the abdominal wall
Study specific questionnaire regarding postoperative assessment of the outcome including: * Overall satisfaction with the appearance of the abdominal donor site * Satisfaction regarding placement and the appearance of the umbilicus Investigators assessment of the abdominal donor site including: * Visual bulging of the lower abdomen * Placement and appearance of the umbilicus * Appearance of the scar
Time frame: 24 months
Costs
National health insurance rate Cost of Strattice (LifeCell), Prolene mesh (Ethicon) Operation time Hospitalization Time to return to work / Duration of sick leave Post-reconstruction procedures to address complications at the abdominal donor site.
Time frame: 24 months
Postoperative complications
Hematoma requiring surgical intervention. Cellulitis/ wound infection not requiring surgical intervention but treatment with antibiotics. Infection requiring surgical intervention. Seroma requiring intervention Donor site necrosis (present necrosis - excluding epidermolysis, in the umbilical area or in the remaining abdominal skin and subcutaneous tissue requiring surgical intervention)
Time frame: Acute <1 month, ≥ 1 month-24 months
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