The effect of human recombinant epidermal growth factor on capsule contraction in irradiated rat model

Aim: In plastic surgery practice, breast reconstruction with implants after mastectomy due to breast cancer and breast prosthesis applications for aesthetic purposes are common operations. Capsule contraction is an important complication in patients with breast prosthesis. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the effect of human recombinant epidermal growth factor (hrEGF) on capsule contraction by giving radiotherapy after silicone block placement in rats. Method: In the study, It was thought that the capsule contraction would be decreased by using EGF due to reducing the chronic inflammation. In the study, 24 rats, six in each group, were used. In the first group, rats were followed for 63 days without radiotherapy. In the second, third and fourth groups, the rats were given two radiotherapy with an interval of one week, 9, 78 Gray in each application. Three doses of rhEGF were given to the third group with an interval of one day, and six doses of rhEGF to the fourth group, one day apart, and the rats were sacrificed on the 63rd day of the study. Results: In the study, the measurement values of chronic inflammation, neutrophils, eosinophils, collagen, vascular proliferation, inflammatory cells and capsule thickness were examined and statistical evaluation was made in four different groups. In the study, no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in chronic inflammation, eosinophil, and inflammatory cell values. When neutrophil levels, collagen amount, vascular proliferation and capsule thickness were examined, they were found to be significantly increased in the experimental groups compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference between the experimental groups. Conclusion: Different hrEGF doses were used in the study, and no significant effect was observed on capsule contraction. Different doses and durations may be considered in other studies in order to evaluate the effectiveness. Key Words: Capsule Contraction, Breast Prosthesis, Epidermal Growth Factor