Stem-cell enriched hybrid breast reconstruction and augmentation and its effects on capsular contracture

Aim of the Study In this study we established a novel animal model of cell-assisted hybrid breast reconstruction and augmentation (CA-HBR/A) and investigated the effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on capsular contracture. We used an approach of silicone breast implants with simultaneous fat grafting (HBR/A) and refined it by adding autologous ADSC in a Lewis rat animal model.

Materials and Methods Female Lewis rats received miniature silicone implants in a submuscular pocket on their backs. Animals of group HBR/A received fat grafting only, groups CA-HBR/A1 and CA-HBR/A2 received fat grafts enriched with 2x10⁶ and 4x10⁶ ADSCs. On day 60, sonography and elastography imaging were performed. After euthanasia the pericapsular tissue underwent outcome analysis by means of histology, immunochemistry, chemical collagen quantification and gene expression analysis.

Results Both intervention groups presented with significantly reduced thickness and collagen density of the peri-implant capsule formation. Overall, fibrotic responses regarding the occurrence of collagen I and TGFb were significantly reduced in CA-HBR/A. Moreover, there was a significant under-expression of collagen I, CD68, IL-12 und TGFb on a genetic level under the usage of ADSC. This indicates suppressed fibrotic and inflammatory responses.

Conclusion With this study, we present a novel model of HBR/A with the addition of ADSCs-enrichment. Capsular contracture formation could successfully be reduced. Further studies are necessary to examine the application of ADSC regarding oncological safety.

Interessenkonflikt

Es bestehen keine Interessenkonflikte.

Publication History

Article published online:
01 June 2021