Breast Implants Flashcards
What are PIP implants?
PIP implants have been made illegal for use in the UK since 2010 as they were found to be fraudulently manufactured with industrial grade silicone instead of medical silicone
How should an intact and normal breast implant appear on an USS of the breast?
The implant shell should be visible with the anechoic (black) appearance of the implant contents visible inside
If breast implant rupture was suspected in someone, what investigation should be performed after USS?
MRI scan of the breasts
What is the name of the sign on MRI scan when there is intracapsular rupture of a breast implant?
Linguine Sign
Does the NHS pay to remove PIP implants?
Yes, they will remove PIP implants however they will not replace them free of charge
What is the most common benign lesion that occurs in young women that presents as a breast lump?
A fibroadenoma
What are the two tissue components in a fibroadenoma?
- Stromal
2. Epithelial
What shape is a fibroadenoma?
Ovoid
When might excision of a fibroadenoma be considered?
- If it is considered very large (>4cm)
- If it is growing in size
- If the patient requests removal
What are ‘popcorn calcifications’?
Multiple white popcorn shaped calcifications that can occur throughout the breast tissue in postmenopausal women
What causes breast cysts to develop?
Normal changes in hormone levels, commonly in women over 35
What investigations are required in women who present with symptoms of a breast cyst?
Normal triple assessment of the breast
Do we treat breast cysts?
Only if they are symptomatic - i.e a lump or causing pain
Do breast cysts turn into breast cancer?
No, they do not. There is no increased risk of BrCa.
