Introduction:

Capsular contracture in patients undergoing placement of breast implant prostheses remains one of the most commonly reported complications in this population. A correlation between contracture and bacterial infection has been established in the literature. Previous in-vitro testing led to the recommendation of an antibiotic solution with broad antibacterial coverage. This solution was used in patients undergoing breast procedures with implants to determine its clinical efficacy. Cost effectiveness of universal application was analyzed.

Methods:

Data from patients undergoing breast procedures involving implant placement was prospectively recorded from 1997 to 2003. Incidence of capsular contracture was determined by retrospective review of the database. Charges for antibiotic irrigation and re-operation for contracture were determined.

Results:

236 patients underwent placement of a breast implant since 1997. Age range was 18-74 years, mean follow-up was 36 months. 158 patients underwent augmentation, 50 had reconstructions, and 17 augmentation-mastopexy. One percent of augmentation patients, 6% of reconstruction patients, and none of the augmentation-mastopexy patients developed Grade III/IV contracture. Cost of irrigation was $155.00, $7,200.00 for re-operation.

Conclusions:

Antibiotic irrigation during implant procedures is associated with a low incidence of capsular contracture. Universal application is cost effective, and should be considered by those performing these procedures.