Purpose: Capsular contracture is a significant complication of aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery. Recent data suggests that the underlying etiology for capsular contracture involves the inflammatory response at a cellular level. The purpose of this investigation was to blunt the inflammatory response and identify any biophysical or histological differences in the capsule using a rabbit model.

Materials and Methods: Thirty-two rabbits were implanted with 30cc smooth saline implant. The rabbits were divided into: a control group (n= 16) and anti-TNF alpha group (n=16). The control group underwent implant placement only. In addition to implant placement, the anti- TNF alpha group was given TNF alpha Ab. Using an intracompartmental pressure monitoring system, pressure volume curves determined compliance. Capsular tissue was assessed histologically.

Results: The intracapsular pressure measurements for rabbits given anti-TNF alpha was statistically significantly less than the control (p<0.05). The capsular thickness varied significantly and was not statistically significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion: Anti TNF- alpha significantly reduced intracapsular pressure in a rabbit at two weeks. All rabbits formed a capsule that has similar overall histology with large variations in thickness within each capsule and group. Modulating the actions of TNF alpha may minimize the development of capsular contracture.