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[Epicutaneous breast prosthesis after breast ablation].

INTRODUCTION
Restoration of body symmetry is a very important aspect after mastectomy to help patients coping with daily life. There are basically two possibilities for patients who do not wish breast reconstruction: either using breast forms that are suspended in a brassière or a new system in which the breast form is attached on an adhesive strip to the thorax wall. With burr crushers the breast form is attached to the strip. Brassières are not necessarily needed. The influence of improved prosthetics on the patients' self-concept and well-being was investigated.


MATERIALS AND METHOD
67 patients in postoperative care at the Universitätsfrauenklinik Giessen were randomized in control group using customary breast forms and the study group changing to self adhesive breast forms. Using the "Frankfurter Selbstkonzeptionsskalen" (Frankfurt Self-Concept Scales), plus additional questions concerning problems after mastectomy, self-concept was assessed before study and after 3 months.


RESULTS
Significant differences with regard to the scale "Social Contact and Relations" (FSKU) were seen. Most patients were better satisfied with epicutaneous self-adhesive breast forms. Weight and movement behaviour of the self-adhesive breast form was considered natural and almost like a part of the body by 92%. 80% considered adhesive strips to be well tolerable. Thoughts about operative breast reconstruction became less important for 62%. 78% were happy to be able to wear more fashionable clothing.


CONCLUSION
The new concept of self-adhesive breast forms is an improvement with respect to social and psychological rehabilitation.