Evaluating Mechanical Properties of Post-Mastectomy Skin Flaps to Estimate Reconstruction Risks, the EMPOWER Study

EMPOwER: Evaluating Mechanical Properties of Post-Mastectomy Skin Flaps to Estimate Reconstruction Risks

This study evaluates the skin and surrounding soft tissue that is removed during an implant reconstruction after a mastectomy.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE:

I. Characterize the nanomechanical properties of the skin and adjacent soft tissue removed at the time of postmastectomy implant reconstruction.

OUTLINE: This is an observational study.

Patients undergo tissue collection during standard of care surgery, have their medical records reviewed, and complete questionnaires throughout the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• * Age 18 and older

  • Female sex
  • Patient with history of mastectomy with tissue expander placement
  • Tissue expander in place at time of study enrollment
  • Patient plans to undergo surgery to exchange tissue expander for permanent breast implant within the next 3 months of signing the informed consent
  • Ability to understand and provide written informed consent in accordance with institutional policies