40 Ethnic Disparities in Complication Rates and Outcomes of Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: A Comprehensive Analysis

Background

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) has become popular for treating breast cancer, primarily due to its minimal impact on recurrence rates; however, prior literature shows increased complication risk associated with NSM. Our study aims to analyze the outcomes of NSM in an ethnically diverse population to investigate potential disparities and optimize its use.

Methods

A retrospective chart review with Institutional Review Board approval was conducted on patients who underwent NSM between 2016 and 2022.

Results

Patient Characteristics of Those Who Received Nipple-Sparing Surgery

Of the total 98 breast cancer cases in our study, 68 patients experienced complications post NSM, of which 48 patients required surgical intervention. Race was strongly associated with overall complication (P = .042), of which Hispanic individuals had the highest number of complications (P = .021). Overall, incisions were strongly associated with infection (P = .027). Tissue expander (TE) had the highest rates of infection (P = .047) compared with flap or implant. Additionally, 8.2% of patients experienced recurrences.

Conclusion

Race emerged as a significant determinant of complications post NSM, with Hispanic patients having the highest rates. Additionally, incisions were linked to an increased infection, with inframammary fold particularly notable. Patients opting for TE exhibited a higher susceptibility to infections in comparison to flap or implant procedures. Further studies are warranted to strengthen our findings.