TY - JOUR TI - Acellular dermal matrices and radiotherapy in breast reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. AU - Valdatta L AU - Cattaneo AG AU - Pellegatta I AU - Scamoni S AU - Minuti A AU - Cherubino M AB - The increasing use of commercially available acellular dermis matrices for postmastectomy breast reconstruction seems to have simplified the surgical procedure and enhanced the outcome. These materials, generally considered to be highly safe or with only minor contraindications due to the necessary manipulation in preparatory phases, allow an easier one-phase surgical procedure, in comparison with autologous flaps, offering a high patient satisfaction. Unfortunately, the claim for a higher rate of complications associated with irradiation at the implant site, especially when the radiation therapy was given before the reconstructive surgery, suggested a careful behaviour when this technique is preferred. However, this hypothesis was never submitted to a crucial test, and data supporting it are often discordant or incomplete. To provide a comprehensive analysis of the field, we searched and systematically reviewed papers published after year 2005 and registered clinical trials. On the basis of a meta-analysis of data, we conclude that the negative effect of the radiotherapy on the breast reconstruction seems to be evident even in the case of acellular dermis matrices aided surgery. However, more trials are needed to make solid conclusions and clarify the poor comprehension of all the factors negatively influencing outcome. LA - English T2 - Plastic surgery international VL - 2014 SP - 472604 SN - 2090-1461 PY - 2014 DA - 2014 DO - 10.1155/2014/472604 U1 - 24987526[pmid] DB - EPISTEMONIKOS UR - http://www.epistemonikos.org/documents/2bb08d9c2beebd88d90ae660d8722644649f2247 ER -