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‘No-touch’ technique in expander breast reconstruction may minimize infection, seroma

A lower rate of infection and chronic seroma was found using a “no-touch” technique in immediate breast reconstruction with tissue expanders or implants and acellular dermis versus the traditional reconstruction procedure.

In a group of 25 breasts with the no-touch enhancement, no surgical site infections or chronic seromas were found. One patient developed cellulitis which was treated without implant removal.

Henry Wilson

In the group of 16 breasts traditionally-treated, two patients developed an infection and one developed chronic seroma, accounting for 19% of the group.

The difference between the two groups was statistically significant.

The researchers used a self-retaining retractor system in the no-touch group. According to researchers, it eliminates the need for frequent repositioning, lowers the risk of the drape being accidently moved and stops unnecessary skin exposure.-by Abigail Sutton

Disclosures: Wilson is a consultant to Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation. The author’s father is a consultant to Abeon Medical. Abeon Medical makes a product used in the technique discussed.