Breast reconstruction surgery could be even safer and produce more realistic
results in the future due to a new clinical breakthrough.
Scientists at the Queensland University of Technology have developed a
technique which uses computer aided design (CAD) to produce a mould of a
healthy breast that can then be implanted, allowing the structured growth of
new tissue.
"Previously the surgeon would do everything by eye and feel. With the
mould they have a physical template to check out the exact shape and tissue
volume needed for the reconstruction surgery," said professor Dietmar
Hutmacher, who conducted the project.
There could be further implications for the technique, as the process has
also been used to create biodegradable 3D scaffolds and Professor Hutmacher
hopes the technology will be mainstream within five years.
According to Macmillan, breast reconstruction
surgery is normally conducted simultaneously with mastectomy procedures and the
surgeon aims to ensure that the new breast is similar in shape and size to the
existing one.
© Adfero Ltd
Cancer treatment news : 2 December 2011
