Right Anterolateral Thoracotomy in the Repair of Atrial Septal Defect: Effect on Breast Development.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM:

The aim of this study was to assess the cosmetic results and the impact on the breast development of a right anterolateral thoracotomy (RALT) in pre-pubertal children who underwent RALT for correction of atrial septal defects.

METHODS:

From December 2002 to July 2010, 25 female patients with a mean age of 8.5 ± 1.3 years underwent repair of atrial septal defects with a right anterolateral thoracotomy. Breast symmetry was described by a clinical index. The degree of scoliosis was measured by clinical examination. The subjective evaluation in breast asymetry, size, and shape was assessed by a survey obtained by the patients.

RESULTS:

There was no intraoperative or postoperative complication or late mortality in the thoracotomy approach or in the long-term follow-up (7.5 ± 2.2 years). According to the survey, breast asymmetry and differences between both breast size or shape were found in 15 (60%) and seven (28%) patients, respectively. One patient (4%) complained of a keloid scar. Mild sensitive skin deficit in the mammary area was determined in four patients (16%). According to the objective assessment, breast asymmetry was found 12 patients (48%) with index 1 and 13 patients (52%) with index 2.

CONCLUSION:

Although it is safe, the RALT is associated with the potential to effect unilateral breast development.

• Authors: Onur Isik, Mehmet F Ayik, Muhammet Akyuz, Ahmet Daylan, Yuksel Atay
• Journal: Journal of cardiac surgery (J Card Surg) Vol. 30 Issue 9 Pg. 714-8 (Sep 2015) ISSN: 1540-8191 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 26171559 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Topics

• Breast (abnormalities, growth & development, pathology)
• Child
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Heart Septal Defects, Atrial (surgery)
• Humans
• Patient Satisfaction
• Surveys and Questionnaires
• Thoracotomy (adverse effects, methods)
• Time Factors