CC BY 4.0 · Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (RBCP) – Brazilian Journal of Plastic Surgery 2024; 39(02): 217712352024rbcp0922pt
DOI: 10.5935/2177-1235.2024RBCP0922-PT
Artigo Original

Unusual findings on MRI of patients with breast implants

Article in several languages: português | English
1   Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil.
,
1   Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil.
,
1   Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil.
,
1   Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil.
,
1   Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil.
,
1   Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil.
› Author Affiliations
 

▪ ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Breast prosthesis implantation is one of the most performed surgeries in the world. Over time, different materials were used to reconstitute breast volume. Despite technical and surgical improvements and the safety of current implants, patients are faced with potential “unusual” complications: intracapsular and extracapsular ruptures, late hematomas and contour deformity, intra-nodal silicone, or herniation of the fibrous capsule. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most useful imaging modality for investigating these complications.

Method:

This is a series of cases in which so-called “unusual” changes were reported, due to their low frequency or lack of mention in the literature, after surgeries to include a silicone prosthesis. The data were collected from the personal experience of one of the authors in his private clinic, in the city of Brasília-DF, between April 2015 and March 2023.

Results:

A total of 211 patients were evaluated, and less frequent changes were found in the MRI of 12 patients (5.68%), of which: 5 with a large amount of pericapsular fluid, 3 with capsular granuloma, 1 late seroma with hemorrhagic content, 1 intra and extracapsular rupture, 1 nodule close to the implant’s fibrous capsule, 2 axillary lymph node disease ipsilateral, 1 intra-nodal silicone, 1 pectoral muscle edema, 2 desmoid tumor and 1 herniation of the fibrous capsule.

Conclusion:

It is estimated that there are 50 million women with breast implants in the world. Based on this data, the number of so-called “unusual” complications becomes a diagnostic challenge for the plastic surgeon and radiologist.


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INTRODUCTION

The breasts are of fundamental importance in the patient’s psychosexual well-being, since the desire to improve aesthetic appearance is part of self-care, whether to reverse sagging, increase volume, rejuvenate, correct asymmetry, or reconstruct the breasts[1]. Thus, the implantation of breast prostheses is one of the most performed surgeries in the world, according to data released by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), representing around 15.8% of aesthetic surgical interventions carried out in 2018, worldwide[2].

In 1889, Gersuny described breast augmentation with paraffin injection into the breast parenchyma. Over time, various materials have been used to reconstitute breast volume, such as ivory prostheses, sponges of different compositions, dermal-fat grafts, liquid silicone, or gel[3].

The introduction of silicone breast implants began in 1963, in the United States of America, through Cronin and Gerow, and since then the aforementioned surgical intervention has been the subject of great discussion[4] [5]. The initial conception aimed at aesthetic surgeries, but currently the field of breast reconstruction uses implants on a large scale[6]. The first implants were manufactured with thick elastomer, in two halves, which were glued together to form a single piece. Over time, several evolutionary steps were overcome[7] [8].

Sperli described 7 evolutionary phases of breast implants that depend on the type of wrap, with or without patch, coating, and inflatable prostheses[9] [10]. For most types of implants and styles, there have been variations over the years, with single-lumen gel-filled implants being more common in our country[6].

Despite improvements in surgical techniques and the safety of current implants, patients are still faced with potential complications, the most frequently encountered of which are hematomas, seromas, infections, asymmetries, rippling, and especially capsular contractures, which are still the most commonly seen complications. with a global incidence of around 27%, associated with the use of smooth and textured implants from the first generations of prostheses[11] [12] [13].

Although mammography and ultrasound are the exams initially requested for investigation, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is the most useful imaging modality for characterizing breast implants, due to its high spatial resolution and the provision of a contrast image between the implant and surrounding soft tissues[14]. Another advantage is the absence of ionizing radiation. NMR has greater sensitivity (72-94%) and specificity (85-100%) to detect implant ruptures, thanks to its sequences that can suppress or emphasize the signal from the silicone[3].

In the MRI protocol, high-resolution devices, the internal composition of the silicone is better visualized with details in a sagittal T2 FSE (Fast spin echo) image, and the high-quality T2 image with water suppression can be useful to differentiate the silicone with intracapsular rupture from the peri-implant fluid[15]. Two-plane imaging is indicated to differentiate early intracapsular ruptures from folds formed at the bottom and top of the implant. Furthermore, imaging in the anteroposterior plane is not recommended due to artifacts caused by the heart and chest[15].

Unusual complications may occur, such as intracapsular and extracapsular ruptures, late hematomas, and contour deformities, with magnetic resonance imaging being the gold standard image evaluation for diagnostic elucidation[16].

Seromas are uncommon late complications, but can occur without a defined cause, the treatment of which involves the removal or replacement of prostheses[17]. The appearance of a large seroma more than one year after implant placement is defined as late. In prospective studies, it was estimated that breast implant-related anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is common in late seroma presentations[18]. In the event of a late seroma that is not easily explained by infection or trauma, the disease should be considered suspected[19].

The most common type of rupture is that of the implant shell (elastomer envelope)[20], the leak of which does not extend beyond the fibrous capsule that commonly forms around silicone implants, accounting for 80 to 90% of all intracapsular implant ruptures [5]. Extracapsular rupture is defined as the extrusion of both the shell and the fibrous capsule, with macroscopic silicone leakage[21] [22] [23].


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OBJECTIVE

To survey the changes found in MRI scans of patients with silicone implants, and identify unusual findings and their frequencies in a large radiology service.


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METHOD

A retrospective survey was carried out in the registry of a private radiology clinic in Brasília-DF of exams carried out on patients with silicone implants between April 2015 and March 2023.

This is a series of cases in which patients with alterations were identified and the so-called “unusual” alterations were selected, due to their low frequency or absence of citation in the literature, after surgeries to include a silicone prosthesis. Patients who underwent breast augmentation using implants for aesthetic purposes or breast reconstruction were included in the study.

The reason for carrying out the exam was not the subject of the study. A survey of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) reports and images was carried out and those that showed unusual findings were selected for study. Furthermore, a literature review was carried out on each of the cases described and listed below.

Finally, it should be noted that the present study followed the principles contained in the Declaration of Helsinki, developed by the World Medical Association. Furthermore, the work was submitted and approved by the Ethics and Research Committee, under number 75934023.7.0000.0257.


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RESULTS

211 patients with breast implants underwent MRI and changes were found in 12, which corresponds to 5.68% of the total. A classification into 3 groups was used:

Group 1, with a total of 5 patients: 5 patients (2.3%) presented a large amount of pericapsular fluid, 3 of which were cases of pericapsular seroma, submitted to aspiration punctures and CD30 and ALK1 measurement, considering the possibility of IABP -ACL, with 1 positive patient. Others 3 patients (1.4%) had capsular granuloma and 1 patient (0.4%) had late capsular seroma with hemorrhagic content.

Group 2, with a total of 3 patients: 2 patients (0.9%) had axillary lymph node disease; 1 patient (0.4%) had intra and extracapsular rupture; 1 patient (0.4%) had a nodule close to the fibrous capsule of the implant; 1 patient (0.4%) ipsilateral axillary lymph node disease of probable inflammatory/infectious origin and 1 patient (0.4%) intra-nodal silicone.

Group 3, with a total of 4 patients: 1 patient (0.4%) with pectoral muscle edema, 2 patients with desmoid tumor, and 1 patient (0.4%) with herniation of the fibrous capsule.

Case 1

B.A.L.I., female, 25 years old, states that 5 years ago she underwent surgery to place a prosthesis for aesthetic purposes for breast augmentation. She underwent surgery with the apposition of implants in the retroglandular plane. Radiological finding: bilateral pericapsular fluid, in greater quantity on the right, associated with enhancement of the fibrous capsule. Given the possibility of BIA-A.L.C.L., the investigation continued with ultrasound-guided needle aspiration, yielding a positive result.


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Case 2

D.G., female, 69 years old, reports that she underwent breast reconstruction surgery after a bilateral mastectomy with silicone implants in the retromuscular plane. An MRI examination was performed with the finding of a large pericapsular seroma on the right, suspicious for BIA-ALCL, a capsular nodular image with heterogeneous enhancement, but probably corresponding to an induced silicone capsular granuloma. Furthermore, there was a morphological change in the right prosthesis compatible with capsular contracture.


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Case 3

R.C.M., female, 71 years old, 22 years ago she underwent aesthetic breast surgery with a silicone implant in the retroglandular plane. A routine examination revealed a large pericapsular seroma with hyperproteic/hemorrhagic content on the right. FNAB was performed, considering the possibility of BIA-ALCL. After this MRI examination, this patient underwent bilateral capsulectomy surgery, with clot removal on the right and breast reconstruction 1 year ago.


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Case 4

J.M., female, 62 years old, states that 6 years ago she underwent breast augmentation surgery with implants placed in the retroglandular plane. MRI revealed a nodule next to the fibrous capsule of the left implant of non-specific origin, which may correspond to a granuloma.


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Case 5

K.A., female, 55 years old, undergoing reconstruction surgery due to a right mastectomy. An MRI performed revealed enhancement of the breast parenchyma and implant capsule on the left, associated with non-specific ipsilateral axillary lymph node disease, probably inflammatory/infectious.


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Case 6

R.C.S., 66 years old, states that 11 years ago she underwent cosmetic surgery for breast augmentation with a retroglandular silicone prosthesis. MRI showed that the left implant showed signs of capsular contracture. Absence of signs suggestive of intra and extracapsular rupture of the implants.


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Case 7

A.S., 46 years old, female, underwent aesthetic silicone breast implant surgery in the retroglandular position 10 years ago. Presents silicone in the right breast with a moderate amount of pericapsular fluid, in addition to thickening and diffuse enhancement of the fibrous capsule.


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Case 8

C.A.M., 52 years old, female, underwent breast reconstruction surgery due to bilateral adenomastectomy using double lumen breast expanders, with signs suggestive of intracapsular rupture on the left. In addition, on imaging exams, left axillary lymph node enlargement is presented, with a heterogeneous signal, which may correspond to intra-nodal silicone, suggesting ipsilateral extracapsular rupture.


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Case 9

E.R., 49 years old, female, underwent cosmetic surgery 2 years ago with a breast implant in the retroglandular plane. Imaging examinations showed marked thickening and diffuse pericapsular enhancement, associated with morphological changes, a large pericapsular seroma, and edema of the underlying pectoral muscle, with pre-sternal extension to the medial aspect of the fibrous capsule and contralateral pectoral muscle.


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Case 10

C.M., 47 years old, female, underwent breast reconstruction surgery with prosthesis in the submuscular plane. On magnetic resonance imaging of the breasts, a breast expander on the right of the usual shape, without signs of rupture, with diffuse capsular enhancement. In the inferolateral quadrant of the right breast, there is a herniation of the fibrous capsule with heterogeneous contents.


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Case 11

B.K.A., 30 years old, female, underwent mammoplasty with the inclusion of implants, for aesthetic purposes. One year after surgery, a hardened area was noticed in the left breast. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed, finding a heterogeneous nodulation in close contact with the implant capsule, with a positive result for desmoid tumor.


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Case 12

L.M.F., 54 years old, female, underwent aesthetic surgery with an implant in the retroglandular plane. She reported nodulation in the left breast, which presented an irregular and spiculated appearance on MRI, with a result compatible with a desmoid tumor.


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DISCUSSION

Faced with several complications related to breast implants, magnetic resonance imaging is the method of choice for evaluating the integrity of silicone implants, as it is more accurate than mammography and ultrasound, chosen for monitoring and cancer screening[6]. With a sensitivity of up to 94% in detecting rupture and specificity between 85% and 100%, sequences with and without silicone suppression are used, as well as combined sequences to evaluate parenchyma and prosthesis[24].

In the evaluation of lesions in the breast parenchyma, paramagnetic contrast can be used, which has better accuracy in recent post-operative breasts, due to the architectural distortion and edema of the operated breast[24]. This usual change is seen when capsular contracture occurs, after breast augmentation with silicone. The thin fibrous capsule normally forms around the prosthesis and causes discomfort and deformity in the breast architecture[15].

There are several signs found on MRI that correspond to complications of silicone implants, with findings compatible with extracapsular rupture (keyhole sign or noix sign) being described in the literature[6]. Furthermore, on the sagittal-weighted image, the subcapsular line signal corresponds to the intracapsular tear. This sign is known as salad oil (foci of hypersignal on T2 inside the prosthesis)[24].

Two patients presented intracapsular rupture, as shown in [Figure 8C], which depicts the linguine sign, and the presence of several hypointense curvilinear lines within the silicone gel.

The radiological sign of capsular contracture shown in [Figures 1C] and [2D] can be analyzed as an increase in the anteroposterior diameter of the implant, associated with its asymmetry and rounded shape[8].

Zoom Image
Figure 1. A and B. Axial T2 sequences show a large bilateral pericapsular seroma, slightly larger on the right. C. Post-contrast T1 sequence in axial plane showing slight thickening and enhancement of the fibrous capsule (arrows).
Zoom Image
Figure 2. A. Axial T2 sequence showing a large pericapsular seroma on the right, slightly hyperproteic. B and C. Post-contrast T1 (B) and T2 (C) sequences in the axial plane show hyperintense capsular nodular image on T2 and with heterogeneous and persistent enhancement on the posterior aspect of the right implant, suggestive of induced silicone capsular granuloma (arrows). D. Post-contrast T1 sequence in axial plane showing changes in the morphology of the right implant, with a reduction in lobulations associated with thickening and diffuse and irregular pericapsular enhancement, suggestive of capsular contracture.

Large late seromas were found in group 1 and are exemplified in [Figures 1A], [1B], [2A], and [3C]. In the literature, possible etiological assumptions point to rupture of the prosthesis, which did not occur in any case[25]. However, in prospective studies, it was estimated that BIA-ALCL occurs in 9 to 13% of late seroma presentations[17]. But this fact could be justified by other causes, such as, for example, friction between the prosthesis and the organic pocket, the chronic inflammatory process, and metaplasia of the internal surface of the capsule[10].

Zoom Image
Figure 3. A, B, and C. Post-contrast T2 (A and B) and T1 (C) sequences in the axial plane show a large heterogeneous hyperproteic pericapsular seroma on the right and diffuse pericapsular thickening and enhancement. D and E. Post-contrast T1 (D) and T2 (E) sequences in the axial plane showing hyperintense capsular nodular image on T2 and with heterogeneous and persistent enhancement in the left implant, suggestive of induced silicone capsular granuloma (arrow).

Pinchuk & Tymofii[26], in a series of 569 patients who had breast implants, reported 6 cases of late seroma, occurring between 2 years and 10 years postoperatively. In the authors’ opinion, the friction of the prosthesis against the internal surface of the organic capsule was one of the main reasons for synovial metaplasia on this surface, but also chronic infection and the consequent formation of seroma.

Lymphatic drainage of the breast occurs mainly via 3 routes: supraclavicular, axillary, and internal mammary, justifying the local lymphadenopathy in cases of prosthesis rupture[27], similar to what occurred in case 8 and demonstrated in [Figure 8D]. Silicone lymphadenopathy is an unusual finding on MRI and has a poorly understood mechanism. However, it is believed that silicone particles are transported to lymph nodes via macrophages in the reticuloendothelial system. In these cases, the diagnosis of breast cancer must be excluded[25].

Unlike rupture, silicone gel leakage is microscopic through an intact implant shell. This phenomenon is related to the chemical affinity between the outer layer of the silicone elastomer and the gel contained therein[14]. Contact with the outer shell can disrupt non-covalent molecular bonds between polymer chains, causing swelling and weakening of the shell itself. Once separated from its envelope, the silicone can migrate, reaching the upper limbs, inguinal lymph nodes, and pleural fluid. Thus, the possible change in two patients in group 2 with axillary lymph node disease and intra-node silicone can be explained. When gel extravasation is extensive, it can be detected by imaging examination, resulting in the formation of the inverted tear sign[6] [10].

Capsular granuloma was evident in two patients, as seen in [Figures 2D], [4A] and [4B]. Furthermore, edema of the pectoral muscle was noted in one patient, as shown in [Figure 9A]. The changes in question can be explained by the literature. In this case, the implant’s silicone gel may have its envelope dissolved over time, making its coating thinner, or even dissolved completely, which makes the product viscous inside the organic fibrous capsule. Thus, in certain cases, there is migration of the viscous product to neighboring tissues, which can form granulations, inflammation of the skin with skin rash, urticaria, calcifications, migration to lymph nodes, or even infiltration into chest muscles, simulating tumors[25].

Zoom Image
Figure 4. A and B. Post-contrast T1 (A) and T2 (B) sequences in the axial plane showing hyperintense capsular nodular image on T2 and with heterogeneous and persistent enhancement on the left implant, suggestive of induced silicone capsular granuloma (arrow).
Zoom Image
Figure 5. A, B, and C. Post-contrast T1 sequences in the axial plane showing enhancement of the breast parenchyma in the posterior third of the medial quadrants of the left breast, next to the breast implant, associated with enhancement of the fibrous capsule and local skin thickening and enhancement. D. 3D MIP reconstruction (maximum intensity projection) in the sagittal plane demonstrating these findings.
Zoom Image
Figure 6. A and B. Axial T2 sequences showing heterogeneous pericapsular seroma on the left (arrows), in addition to reduced lobulations of this implant. C. Post-contrast T1 sequences in the axial plane showing thickening and diffuse enhancement of the fibrous capsule of the left implant (arrow).
Zoom Image
Figure 7. A and B. Axial T2 sequences showing heterogeneous pericapsular seroma on the right (arrows). C. Post-contrast T1 sequence in axial plane showing thickening and diffuse enhancement of the fibrous capsule of the right implant (arrow).
Zoom Image
Figure 8. A, B, and C. Axial T2 sequences showing tiny liquid inclusions in the left implant (A and C) and “linguine sign” (B), suggestive of intracapsular rupture of the external lumen. D. T1 sequence in axial plane showing left axillary lymph node enlargement, with a heterogeneous signal similar to that of silicone (arrow), which may correspond to intra-nodal silicone and suggest ipsilateral extracapsular rupture.
Zoom Image
Figure 9. A. T2 sequence in the axial plane showing loss of lobulations and rounded morphology of the right implant, associated with a pericapsular seroma displacing this implant anteriorly, in addition to diffuse edema of the underlying pectoral muscle (arrow) and the medial aspect of the contralateral pectoral muscle (arrow). B, C, and D. Post-contrast T1 sequences in axial (B and C) and sagittal planes (D) showing marked thickening and irregular diffuse pericapsular enhancement of the right implant, especially in its posterosuperior aspect (C and D - arrow), with pre-sternal extension towards the fibrous capsule of the contralateral implant (B - arrow) and associated with thickening and faint skin enhancement in the lower and medial quadrants of the right breast.
Zoom Image
Figure 10. Post-contrast T1 sequences in the axial plane (A and B) and T2 sequences in the axial plane (C and D) showing herniation of the fibrous capsule with heterogeneous content in the inferolateral quadrant of the right breast (arrows). E. Post-contrast T1 sequence in sagittal plane showing the subcutaneous location of the herniation, in close contact with the skin (arrow).

Desmoid fibromatosis (DF) is a non-metastatic, rare, locally aggressive myofibroblastic tumor, with high recurrence rates (24-77%) and an unpredictable clinical course. The incidence is approximately 0.2% of all breast neoplasms[28]. The most affected site is intra-abdominal, with the breast being an extremely rare condition[29]. Two patients were found in whom the hypothesis of malignant breast tumor was initially raised, which the biopsy and immunohistochemistry results confirmed to be a desmoid tumor. In immunohistochemistry, the positive presence of actin and vimentin, desmin is rarely positive, while S100 and CD34 are negative, being useful for the diagnosis of desmoid tumor[29].

On MRI, desmoid tumors are typically irregular masses, with a poorly defined contour, hypointense, and isointense concerning the muscle in T1-weighted sequences and with variable signal hyperintensity in T230-weighted sequences. These findings are evidenced in [Figures 11A], [11B], [12A] and [12B].

Zoom Image
Figure 11. In the topography of the left pectoral muscle, in its central and medial aspects, at the level of the second to fifth intercostal spaces, there is a heterogeneous solid-cystic nodular image, with irregular thick walls and heterogeneous enhancement, measuring 9.4 x 7.2 x 5.0 cm, with rapid initial enhancement and persistent type kinetic curve. This nodular image displays intimate contact with the implant capsule (with its enhancement and displacing the implant anteriorly) and also displays contiguity with the intercostal muscles posteriorly (with its enhancement), attached to the pulmonary pleura and pericardium in the respective intercostal spaces and without enhancement of the adjacent costal arches and cartilages.
Zoom Image
Figure 12. In the superomedial quadrant of the left breast, 11 o’clock, posterior third, close to the presternal region, there is nodular, irregular, spiculated, heterogeneous enhancement, measuring 3.4 x 3.2 x 2.2 cm, 9.7 cm away from the nipple-areola complex and invading the anterior half of the ipsilateral pectoral muscles, with rapid initial enhancement and persistent type kinetic curve.

Diagnostic investigation through imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging can facilitate the elucidation of so-called “unusual” complications in breast implant surgeries. Given these possible changes, the patient must be informed in advance about the inclusion of breast implants, as her decision may have future implications, requiring new surgical interventions for treatment if complications occur.


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CONCLUSION

It is estimated that there are 50 million women with breast implants in the world. The number of women undergoing breast augmentation with silicone implants tends to increase and Brazil is one of the main countries in statistical numbers. Based on this trend, the number of so-called “unusual” complications becomes a diagnostic challenge for plastic surgeons and radiologists.

In the present study, a low incidence of unusual complications was found, with 12 cases out of 211 analyzed using breast MRI. This diagnostic method helps in the early detection of these changes and provides greater safety for post-operative monitoring, due to its high sensitivity and specificity, playing a central role in therapeutic guidance.


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Conflicts of interest:

none.

Institution: Hospital Daher Lago Sul, Brasília, DF, Brazil.


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*Autor correspondente:

Igor Moura Soares
Quadra SHIS QI 7, conjunto F, área especial F, Setor de Habitações Individuais Sul, Brasília, DF, Brasil, CEP: 71615-660

Publication History

Received: 19 January 2024

Accepted: 04 February 2024

Article published online:
20 May 2025

© 2024. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, permitting copying and reproduction so long as the original work is given appropriate credit (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Bibliographical Record
IGOR MOURA SOARES, MARCELA CAETANO CAMMAROTA, ROSIMARA EVA FERREIRA ALMEIDA CAMELO, SAULO FRANCISCO DE ASSIS GOMES, MARCELA SANTOS VILELA, JOSÉ CARLOS DAHER. Achados incomuns em ressonância magnética de pacientes com implantes mamários. Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (RBCP) – Brazilian Journal of Plastic Surgery 2024; 39: 217712352024rbcp0922pt.
DOI: 10.5935/2177-1235.2024RBCP0922-PT
  • REFERÊNCIAS

  • 1 Baker Jr JL, Kolin IS, Bartlett ES. Psychosexual dynamics of patients undergoing mammary augmentation. Plast Reconstr Surg 1974; 53 (06) 652-659
  • 2 Pitanguy I, Barbato C, Dègand M, Lopez CET. Mamoplastia de aumento: considerações sobre a retração capsular. Rev Bras Cir 1979; 69 (7/8) 237-250
  • 3 Montandon RE. A report on complications of breast implantation: evaluation of 546 cases in 8 years. Rev Bras Cir Plást 2014; 29 (03) 352-360
  • 4 Pitanguy I, Amorim NFG, Ferreira AV, Berger R. Análise das trocas de implantes mamários nos últimos cinco anos na clínica Ivo Pitanguy. Rev Bras Cir 2010; 25 (04) 668-674
  • 5 Gorczyca DP, Gorczyca SM, Gorczyca KL. The diagnosis of silicone breast implant rupture. Plast Reconstr Surg 2007; 120 (7 Suppl 1): 49S-61S
  • 6 Dancey A, Nassimizadeh A, Levick P. Capsular contracture - What are the risk factors? A 14 year series of 1400 consecutive augmentations. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2012; 65 (02) 213-218
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Figura 1. A e B. Sequências T2 em plano axial evidenciando volumoso seroma pericapsular bilateral, discretamente maior à direita. C. Sequência T1 pós-contraste em plano axial evidenciando discreto espessamento e realce da capsula fibrosa (setas).
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Figura 2. A. Sequência T2 em plano axial evidenciando volumoso seroma pericapsular à direita, discretamente hiperproteico. B e C. Sequências T1 pós-contraste (B) e T2 (C) em plano axial evidenciando imagem nodular capsular hiperintensa em T2 e com realce heterogêneo e persistente no aspecto posterior do implante direito, sugestiva de granuloma capsular de silicone induzido (setas). D. Sequência T1 pós-contraste em plano axial evidenciando alteração da morfologia do implante direito, com redução das lobulações associada a espessamento e realce pericapsular difuso e irregular, sugestiva de contratura capsular.
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Figura 3. A, B e C. Sequências T2 (A e B) e T1 pós-contraste (C) em plano axial evidenciando volumoso seroma pericapsular hiperproteico heterogêneo à direita, e espessamento e realce pericapsular difuso. D e E. Sequências T1 pós-contraste (D) e T2 (E) em plano axial evidenciando imagem nodular capsular hiperintensa em T2 e com realce heterogêneo e persistente no implante esquerdo, sugestiva de granuloma capsular de silicone induzido (seta).
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Figura 4. A e B. Sequências T1 pós-contraste (A) e T2 (B) em plano axial evidenciando imagem nodular capsular hiperintensa em T2 e com realce heterogêneo e persistente no implante esquerdo, sugestiva de granuloma capsular de silicone induzido (seta).
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Figura 5. A, B e C. Sequências T1 pós-contraste em plano axial evidenciando realce do parênquima mamário no terço posterior dos quadrantes mediais da mama esquerda, junto ao implante mamário, associado a realce da capsula fibrosa e espessamento e realce cutâneo local. D. Reconstrução 3D MIP (projeção de intensidade máxima) em plano sagital evidenciando estes achados.
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Figura 6. A e B. Sequências T2 em plano axial evidenciando seroma pericapsular heterogêneo à esquerda (setas), além de redução das lobulações deste implante. C. Sequências T1 pós-contraste em plano axial evidenciando espessamento e realce difuso da capsula fibrosa do implante esquerdo (seta).
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Figura 7. A e B. Sequências T2 em plano axial evidenciando seroma pericapsular heterogêneo à direita (setas). C. Sequência T1 pós-contraste em plano axial evidenciando espessamento e realce difuso da capsula fibrosa do implante direito (seta).
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Figura 8. A, B e C. Sequências T2 em plano axial evidenciando diminutas inclusões líquidas de permeio ao implante esquerdo (A e C) e “sinal do linguine” (B), sugestivos de rotura intracapsular do lúmen externo. D. Sequência T1 em plano axial evidenciando linfonodomegalia axilar esquerda, com sinal heterogêneo e semelhante ao do silicone (seta), podendo corresponder a silicone intralinfonodal e sugerindo rotura extracapsular ipsilateral.
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Figura 9. A. Sequência T2 em plano axial evidenciando perda das lobulações e morfologia arredondada do implante direito, associadas a seroma pericapsular deslocando este implante anteriormente, além de edema difuso do músculo peitoral subjacente (seta) e do aspecto medial do musculo peitoral contralateral (seta). B, C e D. Sequências T1 pós-contraste em plano axial (B e C) e sagital (D) evidenciando acentuado espessamento e realce pericapsular difuso irregular do implante direito, sobretudo no seu aspecto posterossuperior (C e D - seta), com extensão pré-esternal em direção à capsula fibrosa do implante contralateral (B - seta) e associado a espessamento e tênue realce cutâneo nos quadrantes inferiores e mediais da mama direita.
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Figura 10. Sequências T1 pós-contraste em plano axial (A e B) e T2 em plano axial (C e D) evidenciando herniação da cápsula fibrosa com conteúdo heterogêneo no quadrante inferolateral da mama direita (setas). E. Sequência T1 pós-contraste em plano sagital evidenciando a localização subcutânea da herniação, em íntimo contato com a pele (seta).
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Figura 11. Na topografia do músculo peitoral esquerdo, nos seus aspectos central e medial, no nível do segundo ao quinto espaços intercostais, há imagem nodular heterogênea sólido-cística, de paredes espessas irregulares e com realce heterogêneo, medindo 9,4 x 7,2 x 5,0cm, com realce inicial rápido e curva cinética do tipo persistente. Esta imagem nodular exibe íntimo contato com a cápsula do implante (com realce desta e deslocando o implante anteriormente) e exibe ainda contiguidade com a musculatura intercostal posteriormente (com realce desta), acolado à pleura pulmonar e pericárdio nos respectivos espaços intercostais e sem realce dos arcos e cartilagens costais adjacentes.
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Figura 12. No quadrante superomedial da mama esquerda, 11h, terço posterior, próximo à região preesternal, há realce do tipo nodular, irregular, espiculado, heterogêneo, medindo 3,4 x 3,2 x 2,2cm, distando 9,7cm do complexo areolopapilar e invadindo a metade anterior da musculatura peitoral ipsilateral, com realce inicial rápido e curva cinética do tipo persistente.
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Figure 1. A and B. Axial T2 sequences show a large bilateral pericapsular seroma, slightly larger on the right. C. Post-contrast T1 sequence in axial plane showing slight thickening and enhancement of the fibrous capsule (arrows).
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Figure 2. A. Axial T2 sequence showing a large pericapsular seroma on the right, slightly hyperproteic. B and C. Post-contrast T1 (B) and T2 (C) sequences in the axial plane show hyperintense capsular nodular image on T2 and with heterogeneous and persistent enhancement on the posterior aspect of the right implant, suggestive of induced silicone capsular granuloma (arrows). D. Post-contrast T1 sequence in axial plane showing changes in the morphology of the right implant, with a reduction in lobulations associated with thickening and diffuse and irregular pericapsular enhancement, suggestive of capsular contracture.
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Figure 3. A, B, and C. Post-contrast T2 (A and B) and T1 (C) sequences in the axial plane show a large heterogeneous hyperproteic pericapsular seroma on the right and diffuse pericapsular thickening and enhancement. D and E. Post-contrast T1 (D) and T2 (E) sequences in the axial plane showing hyperintense capsular nodular image on T2 and with heterogeneous and persistent enhancement in the left implant, suggestive of induced silicone capsular granuloma (arrow).
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Figure 4. A and B. Post-contrast T1 (A) and T2 (B) sequences in the axial plane showing hyperintense capsular nodular image on T2 and with heterogeneous and persistent enhancement on the left implant, suggestive of induced silicone capsular granuloma (arrow).
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Figure 5. A, B, and C. Post-contrast T1 sequences in the axial plane showing enhancement of the breast parenchyma in the posterior third of the medial quadrants of the left breast, next to the breast implant, associated with enhancement of the fibrous capsule and local skin thickening and enhancement. D. 3D MIP reconstruction (maximum intensity projection) in the sagittal plane demonstrating these findings.
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Figure 6. A and B. Axial T2 sequences showing heterogeneous pericapsular seroma on the left (arrows), in addition to reduced lobulations of this implant. C. Post-contrast T1 sequences in the axial plane showing thickening and diffuse enhancement of the fibrous capsule of the left implant (arrow).
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Figure 7. A and B. Axial T2 sequences showing heterogeneous pericapsular seroma on the right (arrows). C. Post-contrast T1 sequence in axial plane showing thickening and diffuse enhancement of the fibrous capsule of the right implant (arrow).
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Figure 8. A, B, and C. Axial T2 sequences showing tiny liquid inclusions in the left implant (A and C) and “linguine sign” (B), suggestive of intracapsular rupture of the external lumen. D. T1 sequence in axial plane showing left axillary lymph node enlargement, with a heterogeneous signal similar to that of silicone (arrow), which may correspond to intra-nodal silicone and suggest ipsilateral extracapsular rupture.
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Figure 9. A. T2 sequence in the axial plane showing loss of lobulations and rounded morphology of the right implant, associated with a pericapsular seroma displacing this implant anteriorly, in addition to diffuse edema of the underlying pectoral muscle (arrow) and the medial aspect of the contralateral pectoral muscle (arrow). B, C, and D. Post-contrast T1 sequences in axial (B and C) and sagittal planes (D) showing marked thickening and irregular diffuse pericapsular enhancement of the right implant, especially in its posterosuperior aspect (C and D - arrow), with pre-sternal extension towards the fibrous capsule of the contralateral implant (B - arrow) and associated with thickening and faint skin enhancement in the lower and medial quadrants of the right breast.
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Figure 10. Post-contrast T1 sequences in the axial plane (A and B) and T2 sequences in the axial plane (C and D) showing herniation of the fibrous capsule with heterogeneous content in the inferolateral quadrant of the right breast (arrows). E. Post-contrast T1 sequence in sagittal plane showing the subcutaneous location of the herniation, in close contact with the skin (arrow).
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Figure 11. In the topography of the left pectoral muscle, in its central and medial aspects, at the level of the second to fifth intercostal spaces, there is a heterogeneous solid-cystic nodular image, with irregular thick walls and heterogeneous enhancement, measuring 9.4 x 7.2 x 5.0 cm, with rapid initial enhancement and persistent type kinetic curve. This nodular image displays intimate contact with the implant capsule (with its enhancement and displacing the implant anteriorly) and also displays contiguity with the intercostal muscles posteriorly (with its enhancement), attached to the pulmonary pleura and pericardium in the respective intercostal spaces and without enhancement of the adjacent costal arches and cartilages.
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Figure 12. In the superomedial quadrant of the left breast, 11 o’clock, posterior third, close to the presternal region, there is nodular, irregular, spiculated, heterogeneous enhancement, measuring 3.4 x 3.2 x 2.2 cm, 9.7 cm away from the nipple-areola complex and invading the anterior half of the ipsilateral pectoral muscles, with rapid initial enhancement and persistent type kinetic curve.