PIP Breast Implants
A number of worried women have recently come
to me seeking advice about the PIP breast implant
recall.
The French authorities, where the implants
were manufactured recommended the following
for women with PIP gel breast implants:
A clinical examination and an ultrasound scan
should be performed every 6 -12 months. The
ultrasound scan should be of the breasts and
axillary lymph nodes.
Imaging, like ultrasound, can check the integrity
of the shell or casing of the implants, and
this will determine the next course of action.
Ultrasound is a quick and easy way to image
the state of the implants.
If in some cases the ultrasound cannot define
the implant integrity a MRI would need to be
performed.
It is recommended that if there is any rupture,
suspected rupture or leakage of implants that
they should be removed.
If one side is ruptured then the implant on
the other side, even if it is not ruptured,
should be removed as well.
The implants can be replaced with an alternate
brand. This does mean surgery.
This choice will take place after evaluation
by the surgeon of the individual risk / benefit
ratio, based on a preoperative assessment that
takes into account medical history, surgical
and anesthetic risks, and the risk of complications
inherent in the surgery.
Not all of the implants need to be urgently
removed. What needs to be done is to make contact
with your surgeon for a review.
Alternatively women who have concerns can see
their GP and organize an ultrasound and then
take the results along to their plastic surgeon,
with the referral from their GP.
To read more information about he current status
from the Therapeutic Goods Administration- an
Australian governing body on medical devices
you can go to
http://www.tga.gov.au/safety/alerts-device-breast-implants-111221.htm
http://www.tga.gov.au/safety/alerts-device-breast-implants-110127.htm
http://www.tga.gov.au/safety/alerts-device-breast-implants-pip-100406.htm
My personal recommendation is to contact your
surgeon should you have any concerns whatsoever.
You will have the opportunity to discuss your
individual case and options.
Dr. Isolde Hertess.
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