Improving visualization for breast reconstruction

Adequate blood flow is crucial to surgical success and the body’s ability to heal. Even a few hours of impaired blood flow can cause damage that can lead to post-operative complications. Advancements in technology, such as our SPY Fluorescence Imaging, can help provide surgeons with real-time visualization of tissue perfusion during breast reconstruction, which may help a surgeon make certain decisions to improve surgical outcomes.² SPY-PHI Fluorescence Imaging technology works by using a near-infrared low powered laser light source to stimulate a fluorescent imaging agent that has been injected into a patient's bloodstream. This makes it possible for surgeons to visualize blood flow in real-time.

Meet Barbara, who made the decision to get a bilateral mastectomy and bilateral breast reconstruction when she learned she had an aggressive form of breast cancer. Her surgeon, Dr. Charles Kays, from Wilmington Plastic Surgery, in Wilmington, North Carolina, took advantage of Stryker’s innovative SPY Fluorescence imaging technology during the complicated operation. The reconstructive operation was a success, and Barbara was up and around in just a few days and fully back in action after only four weeks.

Minimizing scarring for a psychological and emotional recovery

While some may see their scars as an empowering symbol, many do not. In fact, 87%
of women are self-conscious due to scars from breast cancer surgery.³ There are a number of surgical options available, including oncoplastic surgery techniques, an advanced surgical approach in which breast surgeons remove cancerous tissue through a single incision made in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring. Surgeons can use oncoplastic techniques in either a mastectomy or lumpectomy procedure. Through thermally-cool, volumetric illumination, our Illuminated Instruments provide surgeons with enhanced visualization that offer positive physical and psychosocial wellbeing for patients by providing oncologic outcomes equal to traditional techniques.⁴

Meet Dr. Anne Peled, an oncoplastic surgeon. On the day she was getting ready to perform a double mastectomy and breast reconstruction, her phone rang and she learned that the disease she spent her life treating had found her. “I had to remind myself what I tell my patients,” she said. “That this is very treatable and, in many cases, curable.”

Dr. Peled was able to put together an amazing team of caring and talented clinicians. She got through treatment smoothly and relatively easily, thanks, in part, to the type of hidden scar surgery she performs on her own patients. And today, she speaks with every patient with a unique level of shared understanding.