Application of Human Acellular Breast Dermal Matrix (ABDM) in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: An Experimental Study

Background The use of acellular dermal matrices (ABDM) has become more common for breast reconstruction to improve postoperative outcomes. We evaluated the efficacy of breast reconstruction by the application of human ABDM in a sheep model. Methods The sheep in group I (GI) (N = 4) underwent the following procedures on the right side: (1) breast reconstruction using human ABDM after total mastectomy, (2) human ABDM under the skin, near the breast area and on the left side, (3) fat injection and human ABDM after partial mastectomy, and (4) replacement of ABDM in the abdominal wall far from the breast. Sheep in group II (GII) (N = 4) underwent the following procedures. On the right side: (1) breast reconstruction using ABDM after total mastectomy, (2) replacement of ABDM under the skin, near the breast area, and on the left side, (3) application of vicryl synthetic mesh after partial mastectomy and (4) replacement of mesh under the skin, near the breast area. Results Histological evaluations of decellularized skin scaffolds demonstrated a collagen-based matrix with preserved ECM and complete nuclear removal. Histological evaluations of implanted ABDM demonstrated a viable matrix with fibroblast infiltration and revascularization in all follow-ups. The overall surgical complication rate was significantly lower in the ABDM implant under the skin and near the breast in both short- and long-term follow-ups. Conclusion The results of this study demonstrated that the application of novel prepared ABDMs has promising outcomes for breast reconstruction to provide total coverage without the need for breast expansion before implant placement.