On 12 November, a Melbourne trial investigating the possibility of breast regrowth following mastectomy using tissue engineering gained significant media coverage.
The Melbourne-based study will investigate the hypothesis that the body can grow replacement breast tissue using the patient’s own fat cells. Researchers at the Bernard O’Brien Institute of Microsurgery have previously tested the technique in animal models. They are now progressing to the first small trial in humans involving five women.
The process involves implanting a biodegradable synthetic breast-shaped chamber beneath the skin on a woman’s chest to act as a scaffold for the new breast to grow in. A blood vessel from the underarm is redirected to a small piece of the patient’s fat in the chamber, with the aim that the fat will grow and form new breast tissue.
NBOCC* comment
For many women who have a mastectomy as part of their treatment for breast cancer, body image is a significant aspect of their overall recovery. This trial is an exciting new area of research in tissue engineering. However, the trial is at a very early stage and more research is required before the technique can be offered as an option for breast cancer patients.Currently women who have had a mastectomy may choose to use an external breast prostheses or to have breast reconstruction surgery. Further information on breast prostheses and breast reconstruction, including questions to ask your doctor, is available here.