Breast Implant Phantom for High Resolution Ultrasound Surveillance Training

Goals/Purpose: The purpose of this invention is to design a phantom model that is a sonographically accurate depiction of the layers of breast tissue, muscle, and implant with and without rupture. The secondary purpose is to create a learning tool that is affordable for the practicing surgeon allowing them the opportunity to learn the nuances of breast ultrasound imaging in patients with breast implants. Finally, this invention will teach plastic surgeons to recognize implant rupture and other abnormal findings through a breast implant model simulation.

Methods/Technique:

Current policies regarding Breast Implant Surveillance and market research were conducted to determine the need of such a device. An investigation of existing phantoms was performed.

These are typically from silicone products manufactured to resemble nodules for clinicians to either practice palpation or ultrasound-guided biopsy. Sonographic simulation material for the breast was identified. In collaboration with our simulation center, different mixes of silicone and weight thinning agents were utilized to mimic skin, breast tissue, and muscle layers. Finally, a protocol for creating a rupture in the implant and subsequently incorporating the ruptured implant into the model was performed.

US patent through our campus Office of Technology and Development has been submitted.

Results/Complications:

It took two years from idea conceptualization to build the final prototypes to be submitted for patent approval. A simulated model of a breast implant which includes both both intact and ruptured implants in both the prepectoral and subpectoral pockets has been created, that is sonographically accurate. Currently, a standardized simulation course is being developed.

Conclusion:

A model to train the practicing plastic surgeon and their staff in the nuances of ultrasound imaging for the surveillance of breast implants has been developed.